The 10th annual Gold Star Mission 500 reaches Streamwood after five days of remembrance across Illinois.STREAMWOOD, Ill. — Five days, more than 500 miles and dozens of Illinois communities later, the 10th annual Gold Star Mission 500 reached its finish today at the Streamwood Military Memorial.The final day began with more than tired legs and a finish line ahead. Riders still had communities to meet and stories to carry. Stops included Aurora AMVETS Post 103, St. Charles VFW 5036, the Sycamore Veterans Home Association, Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve, Huntley American Legion Post 673 and LITH American Legion before the final miles into Streamwood.At each stop, the same message that launched the ride in Chester remained at the center: Gold Star Mission rides to preserve the memories of Illinois Fallen Military Service Members and to stand with the families who continue to carry their legacies.This year’s GSM500 also welcomed participants from Poland, bringing an international dimension to a deeply personal Mission. Over five days, American and Polish riders shared miles, stories and a commitment to honoring those who served. The route also crossed portions of historic Route 66 during its 100th anniversary year and as America marks 250 years, tying the ride’s remembrance mission to milestones in the nation’s story.The bicycles stopped in Streamwood after approximately 100 miles. The Mission does not.To every school, veterans organization, town, fire department, military partner, sponsor, volunteer, law-enforcement partner and community member who opened a door, stood along a road, donated, cheered or asked to hear a Fallen Hero’s story: thank you for helping carry the Mission.And to our Gold Star families and Fallen Heroes: we will continue to say their names, tell their stories and ensure they are Always Remembered and Never Forgotten.

Students, veterans, first responders and Gold Star Families turn Day 4 of the GSM500 into a powerful reminder of what it means to Always Remember, Never Forget.By Day 4 of a 500-mile bicycle ride, tired legs are expected. What continues to surprise and energize the GSM500 riders is the welcome waiting in each new Illinois community.Today’s route moved through Lexington, Chenoa, Pontiac, Dwight, Gardner, Wilmington, Joliet and Plainfield, with some of the most meaningful moments coming from students along the way.At Prairie Central Chenoa Elementary, students lined the route cheering as riders arrived, chanting “USA! USA! USA!” and presenting them with handmade cards and drawings carrying a message at the heart of the Mission: “Always Remember. Never Forget.”At Pontiac Township High School, history students took remembrance a step further. After learning about Gold Star Mission’s work, students researched fallen service members and shared their stories with the riders—helping ensure the names and lives behind the sacrifices continue to be known.At Gardner South Wilmington High School, students welcomed riders with high-fives and had the opportunity to learn the stories of the fallen heroes the Mission rides to remember.Veterans and first responders continued to surround the riders with support throughout the day, including Dwight VFW Post 2608, the Wilmington Fire Protection District and Stone City VFW Post 2199.Those stops are more than places to rest, refuel or gather for a photo. They are where the Gold Star Mission grows. Every student who learns a fallen hero’s name, every veteran who shakes a rider’s hand and every community member who asks why we ride becomes part of the promise to remember.The day concluded in Plainfield with dinner at Plainfield American Legion Post 13, where Gold Star Families shared the names and stories of their fallen loved ones. It was a powerful reminder that behind every mile ridden and every name remembered is a life, a family and a story worth carrying forward.The evening also recognized a friendship that extends far beyond Illinois. Gold Star Mission leadership presented our Polish guests with an American flag that was flown over Ground Zero in New York City on September 11, 2026—the 25th anniversary of 9/11. The presentation honored the enduring relationship between Illinois and Poland and a shared commitment to service, sacrifice and remembrance.After approximately 113 miles, only one ride day remains. But the purpose of these miles does not end when the riders reach Streamwood tomorrow.The final leg begins Saturday morning. Follow Gold Star Mission on Facebook for real-time updates and return here for the final GSM500 recap.Always Remember. Never Forget.

From Route 66 history and international friendship to local media, memorable photography and a little fun along the way, Day 3 brought the GSM500 Mission to life across central Illinois.Day 3 of the Gold Star Mission 500 brought together remembrance, history, community and a friendship that reaches well beyond Illinois.The morning began chilly with a few sprinkles as riders headed north from Virden, making their first stop at Chatham VFW before continuing into Springfield and the Illinois Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.With Route 66 celebrating its 100th anniversary and the United States marking 250 years in 2026, it was a fitting backdrop for the GSM500. As our riders traveled these historic roads, they carried with them the names and stories of the Fallen Heroes whose service and sacrifice are at the heart of the Mission.Springfield also gave us an opportunity to share that Mission with an even larger audience. Riders participated in interviews with local media, while our good friend Fred Nika captured some incredible photography of the GSM500 as it traveled through the capital city. Some of Fred’s images from the day are featured below.We even had another perspective on the ride from above, as our friends at Ace Sign Co. followed the GSM500 with a drone, capturing remarkable aerial footage of the riders making their way along the route.The day also celebrated a special connection between Illinois and Poland. American and Polish participants have been riding side by side throughout the GSM500, continuing a friendship rooted in the longstanding partnership between the Illinois National Guard and Poland. This year, that relationship has taken on a very personal meaning as riders from both countries travel together to remember Fallen Heroes and honor the families who carry their legacies forward.From Springfield, the journey continued to Williamsville Community Christian Church before heading to the Museum of Route 66 in Lincoln.And after three days and hundreds of miles on the bikes, there was room for a little fun.Stops at the American Giants Museum in Atlanta and Arcadia Arcade Museum in McLean gave our riders a chance to enjoy some of the more colorful pieces of Route 66 history — complete with giant roadside icons, arcade games and plenty of laughs.The lighter moments are part of the journey, but the purpose behind every mile remains the same. Whether we're talking with a veteran, meeting a student, standing beneath a Route 66 sign or simply sharing a laugh along the road, we have another opportunity to introduce someone to the Mission and keep the stories of our Fallen Heroes moving forward.Day 3 concluded at the Army National Guard Armory in Bloomington after approximately 93 miles on the road.Three days down. Two to go.Tomorrow, the GSM500 continues north with the same promise that brought our riders to the starting line in Chester: Always Remember. Never Forget.

The 10th annual Gold Star Mission 500 begins with students, veterans and communities helping carry the stories of Illinois Fallen Heroes.CHESTER, Ill. — The 10th annual Gold Star Mission 500 officially rolled out of Chester today, beginning five days and more than 500 miles dedicated to preserving the memories of Illinois Fallen Military Service Members and standing with the Gold Star families who carry those memories every day.From the opening miles, the Mission was visible in the people waiting along the route. Students and educators welcomed riders at Chester High School before the group continued north through stops that included Coulterville High School, Marissa Jr. & High School, O’Fallon Township High School and Granite City High School. At each school, the focus remained the same: helping the next generation understand that behind every name is a life, a family and a story worth remembering.Veterans and community supporters also met the riders throughout the day, including stops connected with Scott Air Force Base VFW and American Legion Post #365.This year’s ride carries an added international connection, with participants from Poland joining American riders in a shared commitment to remembrance. Their presence reflects the bonds between military communities and families that cross borders while honoring those who served.Day 1 concluded in Granite City after approximately 100 miles, over 2,100 ft elevation gain and strong headwinds. Riders will continue north tomorrow, carrying the names and stories of the Fallen into another day of Illinois schools, veterans organizations and communities.Gold Star Mission exists to honor and support Illinois Gold Star families by preserving the memory of their Illinois Fallen Military Service Members. Follow the GSM500 throughout the week on Facebook and return to GoldStarMission.org for each day’s full recap.

Come out and experience the Gold Star 500 as it travels more than 500 miles across Illinois. Bring your family, wave a flag, cheer on our riders and take a moment to learn about the heroes we ride to remember.Whether you join us at an official stop or simply cheer as riders pass through your community, your support sends a powerful message to Gold Star families: their loved ones are remembered, their stories matter and their legacies live on.Please note: All times are estimated and may vary due to weather, traffic, rider pace and other circumstances. Please arrive early when possible.Tuesday, September 22 | Chester to Granite City7:00 a.m. – Chester High School, Chester – Ride begins8:02 a.m. – Steeleville American Legion, Steeleville9:29 a.m. – Coulterville High School, Coulterville10:43 a.m. – Marissa Jr. & Sr. High School, Marissa12:42 p.m. – American Legion Post 292, Mascoutah1:32 p.m. – Scott AFB VFW, Belleville3:09 p.m. – The Bike Surgeon, O'Fallon4:19 p.m. – American Legion Post #365, Collinsville5:36 p.m. – The Mill Events, Granite CityWednesday, September 23 | Granite City to Virden6:30 a.m. – The Mill Events, Granite City – Ride begins7:23 a.m. – Lewis and Clark Heritage Site, Hartford8:30 a.m. – American Legion Post #199, Edwardsville9:37 a.m. – Hamel Community Center, Hamel11:14 a.m. – Pink Elephant Antique Mall, Livingston1:00 p.m. – Litchfield VFW, Litchfield3:26 p.m. – Macoupin County Fairgrounds, Carlinville5:06 p.m. – North Mac High School, VirdenThursday, September 24 | Virden to Bloomington6:30 a.m. – North Mac High School, Virden – Ride begins7:24 a.m. – Chatham VFW, Chatham8:48 a.m. – Illinois Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield10:31 a.m. – Williamsville Community Christian Church, Williamsville12:42 p.m. – Museum of Route 66, Lincoln1:54 p.m. – American Giants Museum, Atlanta2:45 p.m. – Arcadia Arcade Museum, McLean4:22 p.m. – Army National Guard Armory, BloomingtonFriday, September 25 | Bloomington to Plainfield6:30 a.m. – Army National Guard Armory, Bloomington – Ride begins7:52 a.m. – Lexington City Hall, Lexington8:56 a.m. – Prairie Central Chenoa Elementary, Chenoa10:16 a.m. – Pontiac Township High School, Pontiac11:57 a.m. – VFW Post 2608, Dwight1:40 p.m. – Gardner South Wilmington High School, Gardner2:59 p.m. – Wilmington Fire Protection District, Wilmington4:22 p.m. – Stone City VFW Post 2199, Joliet6:00 p.m. – Plainfield East High School, PlainfieldSaturday, September 26 | Plainfield to Streamwood6:30 a.m. – Plainfield East High School, Plainfield – Ride begins7:34 a.m. – AMVETS Post 103, Aurora8:58 a.m. – St. Charles VFW 5036, St. Charles10:50 a.m. – Sycamore Veterans Home Association, Sycamore12:27 p.m. – Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve, Hampshire1:37 p.m. – Huntley American Legion Post 673, Huntley2:33 p.m. – Lake in the Hills American Legion4:34 p.m. – Streamwood Memorial Park, Streamwood – Gold Star 500 finish

Ride. Volunteer. Donate. Help Us Honor Illinois' Fallen Heroes.The countdown is on!From September 22-26, 2026, Gold Star Mission will once again take to the road for the 10th Annual Gold Star 500. This year's ride is extra special as we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Historic Route 66, traveling more than 500 miles from Chester to Streamwood while honoring the lives and legacies of Illinois' fallen military service members.We're also excited to welcome more than 60 riders and support team members from Poland, making this year's event one of our largest and most meaningful yet.Whether you've ridden with us before or have always wanted to get involved, this is the year to do it!Ride for a ReasonThe Gold Star 500 is unlike any other cycling event. Yes, it's an incredible endurance challenge, but it's also an opportunity to meet Gold Star families, hear the stories of our fallen heroes, and become part of a mission that truly makes a difference.Not ready for all five days? No problem! Choose the experience that's right for you with our 1-day, 3-day, or full 5-day ride options.Every mile you ride is a tribute to the brave men and women who gave everything for our country and reinforces Gold Star Mission's commitment to Always Remember. Never Forget.Register todayVolunteerThe Gold Star 500 wouldn't be possible without our incredible volunteers.Whether you're helping with rider support, rest stops, logistics, registration, photography, meals, or support vehicles, you'll play an essential role in making this event a success. Every volunteer helps ensure our riders can focus on the journey while we focus on honoring our fallen heroes.Sign up to volunteerDonateCan't ride or volunteer? You can still make a lasting impact.As an all-volunteer organization, more than 95% of every dollar donated goes directly toward Gold Star Mission's work, including scholarships awarded in honor of Illinois' fallen service members and the Fallen Hero History Project, preserving their stories for generations to come.Your generosity helps ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.Make a donationJoin Us This SeptemberThe Gold Star 500 is more than a bicycle ride. It is a journey of remembrance, sacrifice, and purpose. Every mile traveled, every volunteer who serves, and every dollar donated helps preserve the names and stories of Illinois' fallen military service members for generations to come.Whether you ride for one day, all five days, volunteer along the route, or support the mission with a donation, you're helping carry forward a promise that defines everything we do.Join us this September as we celebrate the 10th Annual Gold Star 500, commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Historic Route 66, and stand with Gold Star Mission in our commitment to:Always Remember. Never Forget.

Gold Star Mission was honored to sponsor a special day of remembrance and fellowship as Gold Star Families from across Illinois gathered on July 18 for a boat tour aboard a historic Chicago fireboat.Hosted in partnership with the Illinois National Guard Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) program, the event provided families with an opportunity to connect, reflect, and spend time with others who understand the lifelong journey of losing a loved one in military service. Live music by the 144th Army Band and the presence of Illinois National Guard leadership helped make the day especially meaningful.Events like these are a reminder that honoring our fallen heroes also means supporting the families they left behind. Gold Star Mission is proud to partner with organizations that share our commitment to ensuring Gold Star Families remain connected, supported, and surrounded by a community that remembers their loved ones' sacrifice.We extend our sincere appreciation to the Illinois National Guard, Survivor Outreach Services, Chicago Fireboat Tours, Blue Plate Catering, the volunteers, and everyone who helped make this event possible.Together, we remain committed to our promise:Always Remember. Never Forget.

On Friday, June 26, Gold Star Mission cyclists and support team members gathered at Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois, to begin the 9th Annual General Logan 200. Departing at 10:00 p.m., the team embarked on an overnight, 200-mile journey honoring Illinois' fallen heroes and supporting Gold Star families.This year's ride was especially meaningful as it concluded during the 100th anniversary celebration of the General John A. Logan Museum in Murphysboro, Illinois. Arriving around 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 27, riders were welcomed to the historic museum, making this year's finish a fitting tribute to General Logan's enduring legacy and a memorable way to mark this important milestone.Representing Gold Star Mission on this year's ride were Tom Jackson, Brian Monahan, Rich Riedel, Paul Gibson, and Gregory Oelrichs. Throughout the night and into Saturday morning, the team traveled through communities across Illinois, making scheduled stops in Rochester, Taylorville, Morrisonville, Hillsboro, Greenville, Carlyle, New Baden, Okawville, Nashville, and Pinckneyville. These planned stops provided riders with opportunities to recharge, refuel, and take brief rest breaks before continuing their journey to the General John A. Logan Museum.The General Logan 200 is more than an endurance ride. It is a moving tribute that reflects Gold Star Mission's commitment to honoring our fallen heroes and preserving their legacies for future generations. Every mile represents our promise to Always Remember. Never Forget.Gold Star Mission extends its sincere appreciation to our cyclists, support vehicle volunteers, law enforcement partners, and the many individuals and organizations who helped make this year's ride a success. Your dedication and commitment allow us to continue honoring our fallen heroes, supporting Gold Star families, and sharing our mission with communities across Illinois.Thank you to everyone who supported the 9th Annual General Logan 200. Together, we continue to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice and preserve their stories for future generations. Through every mile we ride and every life we honor, we remain committed to our promise:Always Remember. Never Forget.

Gold Star Mission extends our sincere gratitude to Unhinged Springfield Motorcycle Club for hosting the Gold Star Mission Memorial Ride on May 23, 2026, in Springfield, Illinois, in honor of our nation's Fallen Heroes and the families they left behind.Held during Memorial Day weekend, the ride brought together riders, volunteers, supporters, and Gold Star families for a day dedicated to remembrance, reflection, and community. Throughout the event, Gold Star families shared the stories of their loved ones, giving participants the opportunity to learn about the lives behind the names and ensuring their service and sacrifice continue to inspire future generations. These personal conversations are at the heart of our mission because we Always Remember. Never Forget.We are incredibly thankful to every rider who participated, each volunteer who gave their time, and every local establishment that welcomed the ride along the route. Your hospitality and support helped make the day a meaningful experience for everyone involved.Thanks to the generosity of Unhinged Springfield MC and everyone who contributed, the event raised approximately $4,000 for Gold Star Mission. These funds will directly support the awarding of four additional scholarships in honor of our Fallen Heroes, helping us continue their legacy by investing in the next generation.On behalf of the entire Gold Star Mission family, thank you to Unhinged Springfield MC for your unwavering commitment to honoring our nation's heroes and supporting Gold Star families. We are deeply honored and humbled by your partnership and look forward to continuing this shared mission of remembrance.Always Remember. Never Forget.

Saturday evening (February 3rd )we held our first annual Gold Star Mission appreciation banquet. The purpose of the event was to successfully close the 2017 season by thanking the team, the supporters, the donors, but most importantly to award the scholarships and to allow the Gold Star Families to see how we are executing our mission to preserve their loved ones name; through the academic scholarships.We had 150+ attendees, 12 Gold Star families, 14 Scholarship recipients with their parents and family, multiple general officers, and many donors and sponsors.The evening was highlighted by a motivating speech by MG (ret) Enyart who challenged the team and challenged the scholarship recipients to carry on the name of the Fallen Soldiers and Airmen they are receiving the scholarships in honor of. He also spoke of the power of the idea, the power of the team, and how now they are members of our organization.Also, Mrs. Nitta Cross (mother of SSG Kyle Wehrly) gave an emotional and amazing speech about who her son was. This speech was peppered with stories of his childhood, his love for his family, and his actions which made him the devoted and selfless Soldier that he was.We look forward to the next chapter of Gold Star Mission’s journey to ensure the legacy of our Fallen Heroes.

Gold Star Mission had a wonderful day at the 2017 Illinois State Fair. Riders in the up coming Gold Star 500 were able to link up with the Gold Star family whom they are representing. Amazing day, thank you all for the support!