Local veteran launching nationwide ride to raise veteran suicide prevention awareness
Published 2:00 am Thursday, June 4, 2026
Thomas “Ski” Kopetzky, Quartermaster of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1119 in Cooleemee and a retired United States Marine, is preparing to launch a coast-to-coast motorcycle mission titled “Ride to Survive — Stop Soldier Suicide.”
Beginning June 11, 2026, at 9 a.m., Kopetzky and his wife Cheryl will travel more than 7,300 miles across the United States aboard his 2019 Harley-Davidson Tri-Glide, “Rosie the Riveter,” stopping at VFW Posts, veteran organizations, military communities and awareness events across the country.
The mission aims to raise awareness and support for active-duty service members, reservists and veterans struggling with the invisible wounds of war and mental health challenges that continue long after military service.
“This isn’t just a motorcycle ride,” said Kopetzky. “This is about making sure no veteran fights their final battle alone.”
The ride supports Stop Soldier Suicide, a nonprofit organization focused on suicide intervention, mental health assistance and life-saving support for military members and veterans.
Throughout the journey, Kopetzky plans to speak openly about:
- Veteran suicide awareness
- PTSD and mental health struggles
- The importance of communication and listening
- Available resources for those in crisis
The mission has gained support from veterans organizations and communities nationwide, with confirmed stops in Tennessee, Texas, Nevada, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Missouri, Kentucky and North Carolina.
One of the major stops includes participation and awareness support surrounding the “Ruck 4 Resilience” event hosted by VFW Post 2466 in Lubbock, Texas.
Kopetzky says the mission is deeply personal after losing friends and fellow service members to suicide.
“We’ve buried too many of our own,” he said. “The answer starts with checking on one another, listening and letting people know they are not alone.”
The ride launches from Tilley’s Harley-Davidson in Statesville on June 11 with support from local veterans, VFW leadership and community members.
