Ham & Jam Commemorative Ride 2027
Cycle to Break the Cycle
Honouring Courage, Preserving History, Supporting Veterans
In June 2027, a team of 20 military veterans, serving personnel, emergency service personnel will cycle from Abingdon to Normandy and back with the help of 40+ supporters undertaking the Ham & Jam Commemorative Ride 2027—a powerful journey of remembrance that follows the story of the brave men who helped shape the outcome of D-Day. The ride commemorates the actions of the legendary Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, whose airborne troops landed in Normandy during the opening moments of D-Day on 6 June 1944. Their mission was to capture and hold two strategically vital bridges, codenamed "Ham" and "Jam", now known as Pegasus Bridge and Horsa Bridge. These courageous soldiers were among the very first Allied troops to land in occupied France. Their success was critical to protecting the eastern flank of the D-Day landings and contributed significantly to the liberation of Europe.
Why "Cycle to Break the Cycle"
The military teaches teamwork, resilience, purpose, and belonging. However, many veterans can struggle after leaving service, facing challenges such as social isolation, poor mental health, loss of identity, and a lack of connection to their community. The Ham & Jam Commemorative Ride seeks to break that cycle. By bringing veterans and supporters together through a shared mission, we create opportunities for friendship, support, physical activity, and renewed purpose. Through remembrance, challenge, and teamwork, we aim to demonstrate that nobody should face life's battles alone. This ride is about more than cycling; it is about building a community, supporting wellbeing, and ensuring the stories of those who served before us continue to inspire future generations.
Our Mission
- Honour the courage and sacrifice of the D-Day generation.
- Preserve and promote the history of Operation Overlord and the airborne landings.
- Support veterans' wellbeing through camaraderie and shared achievement.
- Raise awareness of the challenges facing the veteran community.
- Inspire future generations through education and remembrance
- Bring together veterans, serving personnel, families, and supporters.
- Raise funds to support veteran-focused projects and remembrance initiatives.
Over the course of the ride, participants will visit significant locations connected to the D-Day story, paying their respects at memorials, museums, and military cemeteries. Every mile ridden represents our commitment to remembering those who served and supporting those who continue to serve their communities today.
How Your Support Helps
Every donation, regardless of size, helps us deliver this unique commemorative event. Funds raised will contribute towards remembrance activities, veteran wellbeing projects, educational outreach, and the continued development of initiatives that encourage veterans to reconnect, engage, and thrive. As the number of surviving D-Day veterans becomes ever smaller, it is our responsibility to ensure that their stories, sacrifices, and achievements are never forgotten. Together, we can honour the past, support the present, and inspire the future.
We Will Remember Them
🚴 Our Sponsors and Big Donators🚴
🚴THANKYOU🚴
Donation: We also have our donation page set up: DONATE HERE
