Pedaling for Our Veterans: Honoring Their Service Through Action

Every November, Veterans Day reminds us of the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of our nation’s heroes — both past and present. NRG takes that reflection a step further, turning gratitude into meaningful support. This year, employees came together for the “Pedaling for Veterans Ride”, proudly sponsored by NRG.

Nearly 20 riders and ten volunteers cycled with one mission: to honor veterans through purposeful action. The NRG Cycling Team and Vets+, a business resource group focused on bettering the lives of veterans at NRG, joined forces to raise $12,500 through participation in the “Pedaling for Veterans Ride” and the selling of Vets+ t-shirts via a limited-time pop-up shop.

All proceeds from the fundraiser will go to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation — a nonprofit dedicated to helping to provide mortgage-free homes to families of fallen first responders and military heroes.

For many, the ride was more than a physical challenge — it was a way to reconnect with a sense of service and unity. Yamil Lorenzo, a retired veteran who served for 23 years and now works as a settlement analyst for NRG, said participating in this event was something he couldn’t miss.

“When I saw the opportunity to serve others again, especially with NRG supporting such a meaningful cause, I couldn’t say no,” he shared. “It was a chance to connect with fellow veterans within the company and continue that sense of service and unity.”

Larry Blanco, a retired Air Force veteran and plant operator at NRG’s San Jacinto Generating Station, reflected on the personal significance of the ride.

“Veterans Day is a time to express gratitude for those who have served,” he shared. “When the cycling team invited me to partner on this event, I knew I wanted to help. Supporting veterans is a way to give back to those who have given so much for our country.”

Larry’s dedication to service was inspired by family.

“My grandfather is a Marine Infantry veteran who served in Vietnam. His dedication to our nation and commitment to excellence inspired me to serve as well. I joined the Air Force at the age of 18 and was soon deployed to fight in Operation Iraqi Freedom,” he added.

While Larry’s story highlights the personal significance of service, for many employees, the ride was a way to express NRG’s commitment to recognizing the remarkable impact veterans have made on our country.

“We ride to honor American courage and to show our support for veterans in a tangible way,” said Mike Wedlock, NRG financial risk analyst and cyclist.

This year, Mike and Larry led the charge for this event, illustrating the spirit of service and teamwork that defines NRG.

Through dedication, commitment, and compassion, NRG employees showed that honoring veterans isn’t just about recognition, it’s about action. Together, they’re making a meaningful difference, mile by mile.