Join us as we celebrate the life of an American Hero - Sgt. Dillon C. Baldridge. Dillon, son of Tina Palmer and Christopher Baldridge, along with Sgt. Eric M. Houck and Sgt. William M. Bays were killed in action by small arms fire on June 10, 2017 in Peka Valley, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan while serving in Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack by placing an ‘infiltrator’ into the Afghan Army.

Dillon while just 22 years of age had earned the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Combat Infantry Badge, Army Commendation Metal with one oak leaf cluster, Army Achievement Metal with three oak clusters, Army Good Conduct Metal, National Defense Service Metal, the Global War on Terrorism Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO medal, and the Expert Infantryman Badge.

On July 15, 2023 we will hold the Fourth Annual Dillon’s Ride. This will be a beautiful ride through the backroads of thel Blue Ridge Mountains that Dillon loved. This is open for primarily motorcyclist; however, others that desire to honor his memory and help us keep a promise made to the family that Dillon will never be forgotten are welcome too.

Events for the day will include a stop in Sparta for a wreath laying ceremony in Dillon’s memory, driving across the  highway bridge named in Dillon’s memory in Deep Gap, and live entertainment at CrossRoads Harley-Davidson Dealership in Wilkesboro, North Carolina.

Additionally, we will have several door prizes and miscellaneous items for sale.

Cost : Motorcycle registration fee of $20.00 for the rider or $25.00 for rider and passenger. Cost for four wheel vehicles is $25.00.  Each registration will include a meal, additional meals are available for $ 7.00.

Upon or return to Crossroads a late lunch will be provided by the Wilkesboro H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group). Live entertainment by the C.J. Ballard Band.

All proceeds go to the newly formed Sgt Dillon Baldridge Memorial Scholarship Fund, Inc. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established this year to provide non-repayable scholarships to siblings of American servicemen and women who have lost their lives while actively serving in our Armed forces.

Location:
CrossRoads Harley-Davidson
US 421
Wilkesboro NC

Registration starts 9:00 am
Opening Ceremony at 10:00 am
Kick Stands Up 11:00 am

Live Entertainment and events at CrossRoads Harley-Davidson.