The Gold Star 500 commenced on Tuesday in Springfield, embarking on five consecutive days of cycling. This event drew many participants to pay tribute to the brave service men and women who gave their lives, ensuring that these fallen heroes and their families are always remembered.

The cyclists concluded their day by resting in Gibson City. WCIA’s Tyler Hill interviewed individuals closely connected to the mission of honoring Gold Star families.

“A friend of mine was asked about a picture in his office of a fallen soldier,” said Assistant Director Chuck Kitson.

And in the moment, Kitson said they knew they needed to change that.

“We established Gold Star Mission as a nonprofit organization to bring attention to our fallen service members and their Gold Star families throughout Illinois,” stated Kitson.

On Tuesday, cyclists from various backgrounds across the state gathered to begin their five-day journey. Among them was Matt Jones, who has a personal connection, as his brother-in-law is a co-founder of Gold Star Mission.

“It’s very rewarding,” Jones said. “The stories, they can be hard to listen to, but absolutely necessary and very valuable.”

Jones said he’s been privileged to hear from Gold Star families over the years as they remember their fallen brother, sister or child.

“These individuals all share a common bond; they prioritize others and strive to do what is right,” Jones expressed. “It is incredibly difficult to lose someone like that.”

One of those is Vonda Rodgers, who lost her son Sergeant Joshua Rodgers in 2017.

“Being part of a Gold Star family means enduring an unimaginable loss,” Rodgers shared. “It comes with immense pride, and our greatest fear is that our loved one will be forgotten.”

This is where the organization comes in. They’ve made 14 mini-documentaries talking to family and friends, and Rodgers said they’re in the process of making 10 more.

“Those are to bring the stories of our fallen soldiers to life,” Rodgers said.

They also award $1,000 scholarships to students, which are named after fallen service members. Rodgers has been volunteering with the group for four years now and says these people are like family.

“They are invested in the Gold Star families in Illinois,” Rodgers said. “So, they want to hear our stories. They want to say their names, and they want to walk this journey with us.”

The ride will finish in Litchfield on Gold Star family’s day, the last Saturday of September.