Tuesday, June 01, 2010

CNO Rides to Recovery on Memorial Day

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Kyle P. Malloy, Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

June 1, 2010 - WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead cycled nearly 50 miles on the first day of the Ride 2 Recovery Memorial Challenge that began in Arlington, Va., and concluded in Manassas, Va., May 31.

Roughead, a cycling enthusiast, participated in the ride alongside Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. George Casey Jr. and more than 200 injured veterans and supporters to help promote the organization's mission.

"I think it causes people to focus on moving forward," said Roughead. "It's physical, it's mental and you draw energy from the people around you - it's just really great."

CNO said it was an honor to be a part of the event and that he gets energy and inspiration from the extraordinary effort of those who rode with him.

"The example that you set, how you have driven on is just a reminder that life is like riding a bicycle, you got to keep moving otherwise you won't get where you have to go," said Roughead.

This was Roughead's second Ride 2 Recovery event. He rode in an event in Florida Dec. 17, 2009.

This is the first Ride 2 Recovery Memorial Challenge that began at Whipple Field on Fort Meyer. It will conclude at Virginia Beach June 5 at the Patriotic Festival. The ride encompasses six days and more than 350 miles. The Ride 2 Recovery is an organization which encourages both the mental and physical rehabilitation of veterans and active-duty service members while honoring the sacrifices they have made.

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