Michael Tobey, a Whitefish native, made local headlines when he was injured fighting across the Diyala River as one of the first companies to enter Baghdad in the opening days of the Iraq War in 2003.

Then a 19-year-old lance corporal infantryman with the 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, Tobey suffered multiple fractures to his legs when an artillery round struck a vehicle close to him. The young Marine attracted hundreds of Flathead Valley well-wishers when he returned home on leave to visit his mother, Julie Tobey.

He spoke to the crowd from the tarmac at Glacier Park International Airport.

"If you see other veterans, make sure you thank them," Tobey said from his wheelchair.

Now Tobey wants to thank the private groups that helped secure the wheelchair and so much more during his recovery by assisting the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. He has set a goal of raising $10,000 in pledges to support his participation in "The Ride for Semper Fi."

On Oct. 14, Tobey sets off with 29 other riders on the four-day, 430-mile ride from Scottsdale, Ariz., to San Diego to raise both money for and awareness of the Semper Fi Fund.

"I haven't done anything physical like this since Iraq," he said. "I know it will be challenging but this is a perfect opportunity to give back."

Tobey considers his contribution small, remembering how much private charities helped him when the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs failed to provide a wheelchair after his injury.

"I was released on leave with just a pair of crutches," he said. "You can't use crutches with two broken legs."

From the moment he came off the battlefield, Tobey said groups funded by private donations were there for him. He recalled having just a gown from the Veterans Affairs hospital for a wardrobe when a duffel bag of clothing was delivered to his bedside.

"There were track pants that zipped up the side over my casts," he said.

Back in 2003, Tobey had high hopes of recovering and rejoining his unit for the war effort. But his remaining physical disabilities ended his dream of continuing to serve with his Marine brothers in the infantry.

"I couldn't run or carry a pack," he said.

To prepare for a new future, he enrolled at Arizona State University, where he earned a degree in finance - with help again from the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. The group came through with financial assistance when G.I. Bill money ended.

Tobey has put his finance education to good use in a career as a portfolio manager for Northern Trust in Phoenix.

"I'm deeply indebted for the all the help I received," he said.

Tobey had always wished that he could raise money by participating in the Marine Corps Marathon, but his injuries prevent him from running. He learned about the second annual Ride for Semper Fi while attending a Marine Corps birthday party.

Since he still can bicycle, Tobey jumped at the opportunity to benefit the fund while participating in the low-impact sport that he had always enjoyed.

"Growing up in Whitefish, I did a lot of mountain-bike racing," he said.

He set his sights high with the $10,000 goal in pledges. He has topped $7,200 with donations ranging from $25 to $500. People who would like to help may donate through his Web page at http://www.active.com/donate/rideforsemperfi/tobey.

Contributors may show or hide their donations and leave a message for Tobey. Many left encouraging comments but the most special note was from his mother, who still lives in Whitefish:

"Mike - your mother is SO VERY proud of you for all you are and your dedication to your country and your Marine brothers and sisters."

Over the past five years, the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund has provided more than $30 million to wounded Marines, sailors, soldiers and their families. For more information about the event or organization, go to the Web site www.therideforsemperfi.com or www.semperfifund.org.

Reporter Candace Chase may be reached at 758-4436 or by e-mail at cchase@dailyinterlake.com.