• by Tanya Gazdik , March 13, 2016

Harley-Davidson is honoring the U.S. military and first responders with a special riding program.

Now through the end of the year, all current and former U.S. military, and first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters and EMS professionals are invited to learn to ride for free through Harley-Davidson’s Riding Academy program.

If the riding academy is not available in a particular area, qualified participants can still earn a Harley-Davidson Gift Card for the same amount of the enrollment fee for a qualified third-party motorcycle riding course.

The offer is "all about expressing appreciation for service," says Dino Bernacchi, Harley-Davidson U.S. marketing director, in a release.

The offer was announced March 10 at the Daytona International Speedway during Daytona Bike Week. Harley-Davidson invited a group of military personnel and first responders to take an ride around the “World Center of Racing” during the 75th Annual Daytona Bike Week.

Escorted by police motorcycles and led by Karen Davidson, great-granddaughter of the company co-founder, the group took an honorary lap around the recently remodeled track.

After the ride, Harley-Davidson also premiered “Comeback Chapter,” featuring Bradley Sims, a police detective and former Army Reserve Solider and new Harley-Davidson rider. The video features Bradley’s story, and showcases the positive benefits of riding. 

Guests also were invited to check out Harley’s 2016 lineup, including the CVO Pro Street Breakout and the Low Rider S.