Harley-Davidson Wounded Warrior Project

US military vet receives a two-wheeled “thank you” from the Wounded Warrior Project and Harley-Davidson.

US military vet Shane Kruchten is the first of eight honorees that will get bikes this year.Photo: Harley-Davidson
Shane Kruchten, the surprised recipient and U.S. military veteran, was in shock and full of gratitude after learning about his new Harley-Davidson motorcycle.Photo: Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson has teamed up with Adam Sandoval, founder of ScootinAmerica (an initiative that focuses on giving back to our military members), to launch "Mission: Thank You" with the belief that every American should be able to experience the profound freedom of motorcycle riding, especially those who risk their lives to protect ours.

Harley-Davidson and Sandoval worked with the Wounded Warrior Project to honor a WWP alumnus and veteran from San Diego with a new Harley-Davidson powered by the  Milwaukee-Eight engine. Shane Kruchten, the surprised recipient and U.S. military veteran, was in shock and full of gratitude after learning about his new Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Kruchten is the first of eight honorees that will get bikes this year. Sandoval is asking every American to nominate a military member—past or present—who has dedicated their life to protecting our freedom by submitting their story of sacrifice, strength and courage of service. His cross-country mission aims to thank those who have served, and are serving, to protect our freedom by giving away eight Harley-Davidson motorcycles. A panel consisting of Sandoval, Wounded Warrior Project representatives and Harley-Davidson leadership will select which seven other deserving military members will be honored with new motorcycles. The honorees will also receive a lifetime membership to the Harley Owners Group and they can give a free Harley-Davidson Riding Academy class to a loved one.

Based on America's nominations, Sandoval will make seven special stops along his cross-country journey to give away the new Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Follow the mission on AdamSandovalRides.com or follow Adam's journey on Facebook or Twitter.

“Mission: Thank You” launched this week at San Diego Harley-Davidson.Photo: Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson is offering the Riding Academy New Rider Course to all current and former U.S. military personnel and first responders (law enforcement, fire, and EMS) and their spouses for just $99. H-D can also provide free motorcycle storage for deployed military personnel. Additionally, Operation Extend the Ride extends the factory warranty for the number of days deployed to account for the balance of the remaining warranty period.