Day 11

Pedaling Through the Storm: A Day of Challenges and Triumphs from Gallup to Grants

Today I met a few remarkable individuals, each with their own stories of service and sacrifice. From Garth Shanklin, a Vietnam War veteran stationed in Heidelberg, Germany, to Jonathan Rosales, EJ Habsheild, and Sergeant Hunter Lyon, all Air Force construction stationed in Gallup, NM, their presence was not just a reminder but a living testament to the true meaning of courage and commitment.

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One of the day’s highlights was crossing the Continental Divide, a watershed that marks the point where all water to the east flows to the Atlantic Ocean, and all water to the west flows to the Pacific Ocean. It was a momentous milestone that underscored our journey’s magnitude and the American landscape’s vastness.

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The rain poured down as we arrived in Grants, casting a somber mood over my final destination. But amidst the downpour, I found solace and inspiration at the Vietnam Memorial. The names etched in stone, the flags fluttering in the wind, and the silence that enveloped the place spoke volumes about the sacrifice of these heroes. It was a moment that etched itself into my heart, a moment that reminded me of the debt of gratitude we owe to those who have served and a testament to the power of remembrance.

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As I reflect on my day of cycling from Gallup to Grants, I am filled with gratitude for the challenges I faced and the triumphs we achieved. From the camaraderie of my fellow cyclists to the solemnity of the Vietnam Memorial, every moment reminded me of the importance of perseverance, honor, and remembrance. As I prepare to continue my journey, I carry with me the memories of this day, knowing that they will inspire me to keep pedaling forward, one mile at a time.