Nez-Lizer Thank the Participants of the 17th Annual Lori Piestewa Navajo Hopi Honor Ride 

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez with the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders at the fairgrounds in Window Rock, Ariz. on May 23, 2019.

Published May 26, 2019

WINDOW ROCK — On Thursday, Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez joined the members of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders for the start of the four-day 17^th Annual Lori Piestewa Navajo Hopi Honor Ride in Window Rock, Ariz., in honor of Gold and Blue Star families and our fallen warriors who served our country.

The annual ride brings together veterans and volunteers from several states and Canada for the 1,200-mile motorcycle ride through the states of Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico. Along the way, the group will stop in several communities to take part in scheduled ceremonies with Gold and Blue Star families to recognize and honor veterans who gave their lives serving our country, and those who continue to serve currently.

“We wish all of the riders a safe and memorable journey to honor our Gold and Blue Star families,” said President Nez. “Vice President Myron Lizer and I will keep you in our prayers as we remember all of our Diné men and women that have given their lives for our country and those who currently serve.”

This year’s ride includes participants from the states of Virginia, Texas, Tennessee, and California. They are joined by the honorable Clarence Louie, who is the Chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band in Canada. This marks the fourth year that Chief Louie has taken part in the honor ride.

Former Council Delegate and current Fort Defiance Chapter President Larry Anderson, provided a blessing for the safety of the riders and Navajo Hopi Honor Riders President Bobby Martin provided remarks and safety tips for the riders. Council Delegate Wilson C. Stewart, Jr. also offered his well wishes and words of encouragement to the riders.

President Nez reminds drivers to be aware and use caution for the safety and well-being of the honor riders as they travel to Flagstaff on Thursday, to Kayenta on Friday, to Towac on Saturday, and to Window Rock on Sunday.

“We thank Chief Louie and all of the honor riders for volunteering their time and resources for this great event, and we look forward to welcoming back to the capital of the Navajo Nation in a few days,” said Vice President Lizer.

The motorcycle riders will conclude the honor ride at a closing ceremony on Sunday beginning at 2:30 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Park in Window Rock. The public is invited to attend and welcome home the honor riders. To learn more about the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, please visit: http://www.navajohopihonorriders.com/.