SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Three "gold star" families will be biking over 500 miles to honor their family members who died in the line of duty this month.

The 9th annual Gold Star 500 is a more than 530-mile, five day bicycle ride meant to honor Illinois' fallen service members.

"Ensuring that the memory of our fallen service members stays alive is vitally important to the soul of our nation," said President of Gold Star Mission Barry Tobias. "These men and women were willing — and did — give everything for freedom and the United States of America."

Riders will bike across Illinois from September 23-27, and three families will join the entire five-day journey. They will greet other families and engage with the communities along the route.

"It is such a privilege to accompany these ride

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