Country music sensation Michael Scott will join Lt. Gen. Rick Lynch, Fort Hood commanding general, as part of the first Phantom Thunder Motorcycle Ride festivities today on the military post.

Scott will headline a free concert capping off a day of activities designed to promote motorcycle safety and pay tribute to veterans in advance of Veterans Day weekend.

About 1,500 motorcycle riders will be organized into three groups and ride a scenic 58-mile route through the Texas Hill Country. The groups will depart in 10-minute intervals to minimize the impact on traffic in local communities.

Riders will make a stop at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen to pay tribute to fallen warriors. "Taking time to pause, reflect and honor those who have come before us is truly a special event," said Lynch.

The general said he hopes to achieve six key tasks during the day's festivities.

-- reinforce adherence to motorcycle safety policy.

-- execute a safe ride while promoting safe motorcycle operations.

-- encourage Motorcycle Mentorship Program development among Fort Hood units.

-- provide a mentorship tool kit to subordinate units.

-- demonstrate to the Central Texas community a commitment to safe riding.

-- partner with the community to pay tribute to fallen soldiers in observance of Veterans Day.

Following the ride, the concert and a carnival will be open. Admission is free. Concessions will be offered for sale.

An opening ceremony is set at 10 a.m. at Hood Stadium.

Motorcycle groups will travel through Central Texas from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a trip to the veterans' cemetery from noon to 12:45 p.m.

The carnival open ats 3 p.m., and Scott performs at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, contact the III Corps Public Affairs office at (254) 287-9993 or 287-4894.