Coast Guard veteran biking 2,100 miles for wounded veterans stops in Savannah

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - A retired Coast Guardsman is turning recovery into purpose, riding more than 2,100 miles to raise money for veteran support organizations.

Lieutenant Commander Jodie Knox is cycling from Key West, Florida, to Kittery, Maine, benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project and Achilles International. She passed through Savannah this week during her 50-day journey across 15 states.

Knox’s mission comes after a 2022 bicycle crash left her with a traumatic brain injury.

“I was actually hit by a car on my bicycle on my way to work, and I sustained a traumatic brain injury,” Knox said.

While undergoing treatment at Walter Reed’s brain injury clinic, she saw firsthand how adaptive sports supported recovery. That experience motivated her to get back on the bike and help others.

Along her route, Knox stops at veteran organizations, including American Legion Post 135 in Savannah. Though she rides solo, she is supported behind the scenes by her friend Kathy, who helps coordinate logistics.

Knox is documenting her journey on social media under “Wheels of Grit,” where donation links are also available.

She hopes her story encourages others to move past fear and take action.

“Just try. Just take one step,” Knox said.