{"id":398939,"date":"2026-09-13T21:48:15","date_gmt":"2026-09-13T21:48:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/398939\/"},"modified":"2026-09-13T21:48:15","modified_gmt":"2026-09-13T21:48:15","slug":"disabled-veteran-leads-group-on-cycling-mission-through-florida-keys","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/398939\/","title":{"rendered":"Disabled veteran leads group on cycling mission through Florida keys"},"content":{"rendered":"

Craig McDonnell, a 76-year-old disabled U.S. Air Force veteran, is beginning a five-day bicycle tour today across Florida’s 28th Congressional District. The ride, named “The Ballots Are Coming!”, spans from Homestead to the Southernmost Point in Key West to support retired Navy Commander Phil Ehr in his congressional campaign.<\/p>\n

McDonnell served in the U.S. Air Force from 1969 to 1975 and attained the rank of staff sergeant. He is leading a team of veterans on the journey, which begins during the weekend marking 25 years since the Sept. 11 attacks. The event carries a message of service, sacrifice, and democratic participation through South Dade and the Florida Keys as voters prepare to receive vote-by-mail ballots.<\/p>\n

During his military career, McDonnell served with the 9th Special Operations Squadron. In addition to his military service, McDonnell is a photographer who has spent years documenting military history.<\/p>\n

The ride is scheduled across five distinct legs through the district. On Sunday, Sept. 13, the tour travels from Homestead to Key Largo. The remaining legs proceed from Key Largo to Islamorada on Sept. 14, from Islamorada to Marathon on Sept. 15, from Marathon to Summerland Key on Sept. 16, and from Summerland Key to Key West on Sept. 17.<\/p>\n

To join the veterans for one leg, multiple days, or the full tour, register here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Click here<\/a> to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here<\/a> to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.<\/p>\n

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