We're In The Army Now!

BRAG Day 6-Metter to Hinesville

Distance: 62.19 miles
Ride Time: 4hrs, 20mins, 21secs
Avg Speed: 14.33 mph

Today we said goodbye to the town of Metter (and by extension for me, Statesboro) as we traveled south to the hamlet of Hinesville.  The major industry here is Fort Stewart, home to the U.S. Army's 3rd Infantry Division.  In fact, we a twenty mile headwind tinged leg through Ft. Stewart.  It was pretty cool to see street signs that said "Tank Crossing" with a picture of a tank.  We were really hoping to encounter one during our ride.  Unfortunately, no such luck.  However, we did see a soldier on the side of the road brandishing an M16 rifle.  As I passed him I waved and he waved back.  I would love to show you pictures of that and everything else we saw in Ft. Stewart but we received the following warning in our cue sheets: "Taking photographs of military installations and troop movements is strictly prohibited."  SO THERE!! ;)  No matter, it was still awesome to see all of the signs welcoming soldiers back home from Iraq and Afghanistan.  It had to be even more special for the Wounded Warriors team that is participating in BRAG.  To see them pedaling hand bikes all of these miles really puts it in perspective for me.  I will NEVER complain again about not being able do something on my bike when I think of what they have done and are doing!

This is a picture of me with my new friends Linda (on your left) and Judy.  Linda is from Dahlonega, GA and Judy is from Gainesville, GA.  We met on Sunday and rode with each other for a period of time Sunday and Monday.  We had fun going up and down the steep hills of middle Georgia.  OK, I lied.  The fun part was definitely going down the hills! :)   Thank you Linda and Judy! :)

While I was waiting for the bus to take me to BRAG HQ in Hinesville, I spotted this little gecko on the wall of the bus stop.  Before he scampered away, he did tell me I could save 15% on my car insurance.  Even the geckos are friendly in Georgia! :)



Well we are down to our last ride day tomorrow.  A 36 mile trek to Savannah and the eastern shore of the Atlantic Ocean.  As always, it will be bittersweet.  See you tomorrow!

Gary