A man on a mission for military veterans across the country, rolled down the Seneca County side of Cayuga Lake en route to New York City Monday.

Minnesotan Robert Van Vranken, 49, set out from Minneapolis in his wheelchair on June 1 to raise money and awareness for veterans. The Rolling Dutchman's nonpartison platform is neither pro- nor anti-war according to his Web site, www.myspace.com/dutchmanrolling.

Though not a veteran himself, Vranken lost his leg several months ago and decided to make the 1,200-mile journey as a sign of solidarity and sympathy.

"The Dutchman also has two sons, 19 and 21, the same age as some of the brave soldiers losing their lives in the war," a description on his Web site reads.

He's expected to make an appearance on a major television network morning program when he reaches New York. On Monday morning, he was traveling about 10 mph on Route 89 toward Ithaca.

Van Vranken planned to head into Pennsylvania and New Jersey before reaching his final destination, he said by cell phone.

Donations may be made to Rolling Dutchman, Minneapolis VA Medical Center - 135, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417. Memo section of checks should include SCI/D.

Donations that will go to the Spinal Cord Injury/Disorder Center may also be made at the Web site