A local man is commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands by gearing up overseas
Vernon's Bob Harding is once again taking on the Wounded Warriors Canada Battlefield Bike Ride.
Harding arrives at the Fletcher-Wellness Hotel in Stadspark Monday, Sept. 7 to get to know fellow riders before the journey begins Sept. 8.
"The route will begin in Bergen-Op-Zoom and will conclude in Deventer taking in many Canadian War Cemeteries over five days where we will honour the supreme sacrifice of so many young Canadians," said the 74-year-old.
Along with traversing much the European landscape, the ride offers much history into the Canadian Army's liberation efforts and a chance to pay tribute to those who never made it home.
Funds raised support Wounded Warriors Canada, which provides service for military and first responders and their families suffering mental health issues as a result of their service.
Donations of $20 or more are eligible for a tax receipt at .
Harding is part of the team Borealis Riders and he has so far raised the most, more than $9,500, towards the nearly $49,000 team total. Harding is one of 825 cyclists who have to date raised $3.5 million for what he calls a "badly-needed service.
Harding previously hosted a Wounded Warriors ride along the Okanagan Rail Trail in May 2024 ahead of his Battlefield Bike Ride in Normandy, France in June. That ride marked the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
A former pharmacist, Harding is an active cyclist, hiker and member of the community, volunteering at numerous events, as well as a being a BX Scout leader.