Andrew Ray Vet Ride

The Andrew Ray Vet Ride is a police-escorted event held annually in and around Rockville, Indiana, encompassing Parke, Fountain, Vermillion, and Vigo Counties. Scheduled for August 9, 2025, this ride features motorcycles, 4x4 vehicles, and Jeeps touring over 100 miles. The route highlights historical markers, iron bridges, covered bridges, courthouse squares, and historic districts, paying tribute to veterans while offering a scenic and historical journey.

The atmosphere of the event is respectful and commemorative, combining community spirit with a celebration of local heritage. The ride is designed to honor veterans, particularly Andrew Ray, a U.S. Army veteran from the Indian Wars era who was instrumental in the area's early development.

Key details and activities of the Andrew Ray Vet Ride include:

• Start and Registration: The event begins with vehicle registration, often around 8:30 a.m., typically located at 116 W. High St., Rockville.
• The Ride: Participants travel a 100+ mile route through Parke, Fountain, Vermillion, and Vigo Counties. The journey passes through significant historical sites, including covered bridges (a signature landmark of Parke County), iron bridges, courthouse squares, and historic districts.
• Escort and Safety: The ride is police-escorted, ensuring safety and smooth navigation through county roads and towns.
• Participant Vehicles: The event invites motorcycles, Jeeps, trucks, and 4x4 vehicles.
• Admission: There is an admission charge for participants.
• Accessibility: The event is handicap accessible.
• Contact: More information can be obtained via phone at (765) 592-0046 or through the website www.rockvillevetride.com.

Rough schedule (based on prior years, subject to confirmation for 2025):

• 8:30 a.m.: Registration opens at Rockville (116 W. High St.)
• Morning to early afternoon: Police-escorted ride covering historical landmarks and covered bridges.
• Afternoon: Likely stops at VFWs and American Legion posts in the counties for brief visits or refreshments.
• End of ride: Gathering or concluding event back in Rockville or at a designated location.

The event's history is closely tied to Andrew Ray, a veteran born in 1785 who served in the Indian Wars and was among the early settlers who donated land foundations for the area, including Rockville. The ride serves as a memorial honoring his contributions and veterans more broadly, while also promoting the heritage and natural beauty of the counties involved.

Overall, the Andrew Ray Vet Ride combines veteran tribute, historical education, scenic touring, and community engagement in a structured, well-supported ride.