Why are we riding so far and on such old snowmobiles?

In the winter of 2018, Roger was riding in the car with his wife Bernice and son Wyatt. Roger was talking about how he had always wanted to ride the route of the International 500 snowmobile race that went from Winnipeg, MB to the Winter Carnival in St. Paul, MN in the late 1960’s and 1970’s mainly. Wyatt thought it was a great idea and said he would love to ride it as well! Bernice agreed he should do it while he can. This is how the idea was born and the planning began. The choice of snowmobile was a no brainer, and the year of the ride was determined based on the 50th anniversary of John Deere snowmobiles and all the events that would be involving John Deere that year; namely the Midwest Ride-In event in Elk River, MN.

Why are we selling raffle tickets?

Roger Kram served his country from 1972 - 1976 in the US Navy aboard the USS Marvin Shields during the Vietnam War. Veterans and veteran services are near and dear to Roger. He especially appreciates the work of the Memorial Honor Guard.

For This reason, Roger thought it would be a good idea to use this I-500 Challenge Ride to raise awareness and money for to Fargo National Honor Guard. He contacted a relative of his, Kraig, that is active in the VFW of Casselton, ND. Kraig spoke with his post and they agreed to partner with us to benefit the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard who needs help to build a memorial chapel space at the Fargo National Cemetery.

"We are asking for financial support to build a Memorial Chapel and gathering space at the Fargo National Cemetery. The National Cemetery Administration, which runs the VA National Cemeteries will not provide any buildings until the cemetery reaches 100 acres. The current size of the cemetery is five acres. Our goal is for the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard (FMHG) to purchase five acres of land east of the National Cemetery and adjacent to it. This would allow for a building and ample parking for families.

The facility would provide a chapel, gathering space, office, restrooms, kitchen, and a breakroom/locker room for FMHG to prepare for the burials and store their equipment. Families are driving hours to attend the burial of their loved one and are given 20 minutes for the military honors to be presented before the next burial. There isn't a place for the families to gather before or after the internment. If there is inclement weather, there is no shelter for the families or the FMHG to conduct the military ceremonies for the departed veteran. Your donation can help change that!"

Contact us today to purchase raffle tickets and support the FMHG!