The annual Babylon Soldier Ride is set to kick off Friday to honor our country's severely wounded veterans.

Nearly 700 people have signed up and more than $80,000 has been raised for the event.

Sara Guando, of the Wounded Warrior Project, says this year's 15th ride has people extra eager because the event was canceled for the previous two years due to the pandemic.

"This is one of the few soldier rides in the nation that has the community aspect to it," Guando says. "So, the community really gets to see the impact that they're having. They're watching the program live and they're participating in it..."

Over 30 wounded soldiers will participate this year and hundreds of bikers from across Long Island and the tri-state area will ride behind them.

The 25-mile ride will take participants from Babylon Town Hall to Overlook Beach.

Guando says the veterans have physical injuries from war, but also invisible injuries they are suffering from.

Anyone who wants to donate or sign up can visit here.