The West Michigan Freedom Cruise is a 25 mile motorcycle and classic car Honor Ride for a local fallen soldier. It begins at Fifth Third Ballpark in Grand Rapids, MI runs through Sparta, MI and returns to the ballpark.
This ride has been an annual favorite for classic car owners, motorcycle riders, veterans, and local patriots. The ride and ceremony are free for the public to attend. Drivers must pre-register to be allowed to join the ride.
Join us in honoring freedom, valor, and sacrifice!
This year's honoree is Army Spc. Chad Vollmer and family.
Assigned to the Army National Guard E. Company, 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry, also known as the “Hooligans”. Sgt. Chad J. Vollmer died December 23rd, 2006 when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle during combat operations in Salman Pak, Iraq. Also killed were: Pfc. Wilson A. Algrim and Pvt. Bobby Mejia II. He was born in Grand Rapids on January 22, 1982 to proud parents, Sandi and Terry Vollmer, and a loving sister, Heather. Chad loved the military and loved his country. He entered the ROTC program in his freshman year at Central High School and entered the Army National Guard between his junior and senior year in high school. Chad had the opportunity after 9/11 to participate in the United States Homeland Security Initiative at the Kent County International Airport and in Detroit at the Ambassador Bridge to Canada. He was serving his second tour of duty in the service of his country outside of the United States. First in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt as a member of the Delta Dragons D. Company, 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry, and secondly in Iraq as part of Company E “Hooligans”, assigned to the 759th Task Force. Throughout his life Chad touched many lives, young and old, and he will never be forgotten. Sgt. Chad J. Vollmer, was 24, of Grand Rapids, Michigan.