On Friday, former President George W. Bush opened the gates of his ranch in Crawford, Texas, to 27 veterans participating in the 16th annual Warrior Ride. The event, held on the eve of Veterans Day, celebrates the courage and recovery of service members who have been wounded in combat.
Veterans ride alongside the former commander‑in‑chief
“These veterans have overcome a lot… but there’s no self‑pity. There’s no, ‘Please feel sorry for me’,” Bush said as he greeted the group. “They serve as a great example of how to deal with life’s difficulties and recover. I’ve watched a lot of them over the years go from darkness to light.”
The riders, many of whom are still undergoing physical therapy, rode on bicycles provided by the Warrior Ride organization. The program pairs veterans with volunteers who help them train for the ride, fostering camaraderie and physical fitness.
Family support underscores the event
Fox News contributor Billy Bush, the former president’s cousin, praised the ongoing commitment, noting on “The Sunday Briefing” that George W. Bush’s dedication to service members did not end when he left the White House. “George W. Bush has never wavered,” Billy said. “The greatest responsibility of the office is deciding to send troops to war, and inevitably, some get hurt. And for George W., that doesn’t end when you walk out of office. He’s done it 16 years in a row. He’s hopping on his bike and riding with the guys.”
Billy also highlighted his cousin’s artwork featuring wounded warriors, calling it a testament to the former president’s lifelong support. “Character matters, and his artwork is about wounded warriors. He has really, really lived it all the way through. So hats off to the old man,” he added, before joking about seeing his 80‑year‑old relative on a bicycle.
Warrior Ride’s broader impact
The Warrior Ride program, now in its 16th year, brings together nearly 200 injured service members nationwide each summer. Participants report improvements in physical health, mental well‑being, and community connection. The Crawford event serves as a local showcase of the program’s success and a reminder of the nation’s gratitude toward those who have sacrificed.
Local veterans’ groups and community volunteers helped organize the Crawford ride, providing logistical support, medical staff, and refreshments. Their involvement reflects the strong tradition of faith‑based and family‑centered service that characterizes many Texas communities.
Looking ahead to Veterans Day
As the riders concluded the day’s activities, Bush expressed optimism for the upcoming Veterans Day ceremonies across the state. “We’ll keep supporting our veterans, not just with words but with actions that help them heal and thrive,” he said.
The Warrior Ride continues to grow, with plans to expand to additional Texas towns next year, offering more veterans the chance to experience the therapeutic benefits of cycling and fellowship.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
