Miami's Cold Snap Doesn't Stop Wounded Warriors

MIAMI BEACH, FL — Miami's unusual cold snap didn't stop dozens of first responders and wounded veterans from taking to the streets in shorts and T-Shirts on Thursday for the 2018 Wounded Warrior Soldier Ride. The ride began in South Beach with temperatures that felt like the the 30s and ended at Marlins Park.

"Each year Miami Beach PD, Miami Beach Fire and several law enforcement agencies participate and escort these wounded warriors from Ocean Drive to Marlins Park," Ernesto Rodriguez of the Miami Beach Police Department told Patch after participating in the event. "It’s a unique opportunity for wounded service members and veterans to use cycling to overcome physical and mental wounds."

This year's event also featured Major Ricky Carter of the Miami-Dade Police Department, who has become an inspiration to the Miami area after losing both legs in a motorcycle accident over the summer.

The annual event began in 2004 when civilian Chris Carney cycled more than 5,000 miles coast-to-coast to support Wounded Warrior Project and help raise awareness for injured veterans. The following year, several combat warriors returned from Operation Enduring Freedom with visible and invisible injuries and joined Carney for another cross-country ride.

"The trek across the nation proved to be a milestone on the journey to recovery as wounded warriors redefined their personal strengths and limitations. Despite facing many obstacles, the warriors refused to give up," according to organizers. "They used the experience as a catalyst to show the public and themselves that with support and motivation, anything was possible."

This year, nearly 1,000 riders were expected to participate in more than 30 Soldier Ride events nationwide.

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In South Florida the event has become a multi-day bicycling program that pushes warriors physically and mentally while empowering their paths to recovery.

Other events are being held in dozens of U.S. cities, including New York, Chicago, San Diego, Portland, Pittsburgh and Washington, DC, where the president was expected to welcome participants at the White House.

"Each year we as a police agency are honored to show our respect and give thanks to each of these brave individuals," Rodriguez of the Miami Beach Police Department added.

Watch below as riders prepare to depart Ocean Drive in South Beach:

Photo and video courtesy Miami Beach Police Department