World T.E.A.M. Sports 2014 Annual Review | Page 26

Events

S tart : The Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia
F inis h : Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
T O TA L D O N ATI O N S : $441,501

This bicycle and hand cycle ride has encouraged participants to overcome physical and
emotional challenges together since its start in 2000. The 110-mile, two-day ride north—
from the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia to Pennsylvania’s historic Civil War battlefields at
Gettysburg—is one of Washington, D.C.’s most popular non-competitive bicycle rides. With
an increasing number of participants each year, the 2014 Face of America welcomed 134
injured military veterans from all service branches to travel alongside more than 450 active
duty and retired military members and civilians. Riders from across the United States and
Canada got to know each other better as they pedaled along scenic Maryland highways
from metropolitan Washington into the countryside. Any difficulties colleagues experienced
were resolved through active support, and, as the miles passed, emotional barriers between
groups fell. Following a somber route through the quiet battlefields, riders were welcomed
to the finish beneath a magnificent American flag. All participants celebrated the exceptional
journey over a community-supported lunch. On the return bus ride to Arlington, plans were
already underway for new friends to join together at the next Face of America, as well as
participate in other outdoor events.

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