Amputee veteran cycles into Fallon

Double-amputee veteran Rob Jones will cycle through Fallon next week en route to his final destination in San Diego.

Linda Kay Neal, commander of American Legion Post 16, said the Legion is honored to welcome Jones to Fallon. Jones is travelling westbound on U.S. Highway 50 and should arrive on Monday, she said.

“I’m not sure of the exact time he will be arriving,” Neal said. “I will get a call about 30 minutes before he is suppose to arrive.”

Beverly Swirczek, executive secretary for the Fallon Police Department, said Jones will receive a police escort through town. She said Jones is scheduled to be transported at 4 p.m. to the City Hall courtyard, where Mayor Ken Tedford Jr. will present him with a proclamation and the key to the city. During the reception, cookies and punch will be provided while attendees converse with Jones, she said.

Neal said she is hoping residents will come out to support him while he rides through town.

“We are hoping to have supporters line the streets waving American flags,” Neal said. “I have some small American flags I can hand out, but if residents have their own they could bring that would be great. We’re really hoping for a big turnout with residents coming to support him.”

The American Legion is holding a corned beef and cabbage dinner on Monday from 6–8 p.m., Neal said. Residents are welcome to join the Legion and Jones for dinner and a meet and greet. She said tickets for meals are $7 and patrons do not need a reservation.

Neal said Jones is expected to continue his journey on Wednesday after a day of rest and perhaps exploring the area.

Jones, a Marine veteran, was injured in Afghanistan in 2010 and lost both of his legs, above the knee, after stepping on an improvised explosive device (IED). Following his recovery, Jones didn’t lose his dream of living a meaningful life, and pushed the boundaries and learned how to ride an upright bike with custom made prosthetics.

Jones, who began his journey in October in Maine, will cover 17 states during his odyssey and more than 5,000 miles of scenic terrain, dealing with different weather elements from each state.

Jones has set a goal to raise $1 million in donations for the charities that helped him after his accident.

Residents can give back to injured soldiers by donating to three charities Jones supports. Donations can be made through his website, and are linked to the charities. Visit www.robjonesjourney.com to donate or visit his Facebook page, Rob Jones Journey, to learn more.

For information regarding this event, contact Linda Kay at 775-250-6765.