The ninth annual Ride to Remember will kick off at noon Saturday, Sept. 9, from American Legion Post 154, 201 W. Lincoln St., Nappanee.

The 68-mile motorcycle ride, hosted by the post’s American Legion Riders, will be escorted from beginning to end by the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department.

The ride commemorates the veterans and first responders involved in the Sept. 11, 2001, attack and the ensuing war in the Middle East.

“About 150 to 200 bikes” are expected for the ride, which will end at Riders President Joe Marvel’s property, 1266W 1250N, Milford.

“We have had excellent turnout over the years,” said Mitch Grevenstuk, ride coordinator. “Even in the rain we have had about 100 bikes.”

Riders, passengers and attendees of the post-ride gathering may participate for a $15 donation. Registration for the ride will take place from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the post.

Each registrant will receive a wristband, and a limited issue of event T-shirts will be available.

Those who wish to forgo the ride but attend the Milford party may pay their donations at the property entrance.

The caravan will leave Nappanee heading south on SR 19 and proceed through Etna Green, Mentone, Winona Lake, Pierceton, North Webster and Syracuse before arriving in Milford a little after 1:30 p.m.

The party will run “’til whenever,” according to Grevenstuk, and will include a corn hole tournament, raffles, auction, music and a 60-foot buffet table featuring pulled pork, “probably 17 or 18 salads and veggie trays,” and other food. “If you like to eat, this would be the place to go,” said Grevenstuk.

For an additional $10, attendees will receive another wristband entitling them to unlimited access to the beer wagon.

Peanut will serve as DJ and live music will be provided by Elkhart rock and blues show band Hideous Business.

Primitive, RV and tent camping will available for those who wish to stay overnight. “Camping is encouraged for those who are going to drink,” Grevenstuk said. Party attendees must be at least 21 years old.

Event proceeds will be distributed to benefit “homeless vets and the local community.”

Recipients of last year’s fundraiser included the Robert Miller Veterans Center in South Bend, local food pantries, cancer patients, Elkhart County Special Olympics and needy families at Christmas. “We will add some more recipients, depending how much money we raise and who is out there who needs it,” said Grevenstuk.

The Riders are still accepting donations of merchandise, gift certificates and services to be used as prizes and as items for the 3 p.m. live auction.

All donations by check should be made payable to ALR Post 154.

For more information, call Marvel at (574) 546-3403 or Grevenstuck at (574) 535-4017.