CVAHCS 24th Annual Vets’ Christmas Charity Ride
COLUMBIA, South Carolina – Motorcycle riders from across the Midlands turned out for the 24th Annual Vets’ Christmas Charity Ride event that brought some early Christmas cheer to local veterans.
On Sunday, December 8, the Columbia VA Health Care System proudly hosted the main event for the annual Vets' Christmas Charity Ride at the Dorn VA Medical Center. Thousands of motorcyclists and community members came together to deliver holiday cheer and donations for Veterans in need. More than $16,000 was raised to support the Veterans at Dorn.
The Annual Vets' Christmas Charity Ride was founded in December of 2000 by retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Jim Wertman, the general manager of Carolina Honda; Gene Royer, the South Carolina Gold Wing Riders Association and owner of All American Heating and Air; and the owner of Carolina Honda, Earl Small Jr. from Atlanta, Georgia. These three men set out on a path to bring Christmas to the hospitalized veterans of Dorn VA Medical Center. Small died in a helicopter crash in 2008.
“This year’s ride was our second biggest since we started,” said Wertman. “From the time the first two motorcycles left our parking lot until the last two was 17 minutes. Seventeen minutes of none stop bikes.”
The event was filled with holiday spirit as participants arrived with gifts and donations, helping to ensure a brighter holiday season for Veterans in our community. Guests enjoyed burgers and hot dogs from Sonic, and other generous sponsors while sharing the joy of giving back.
“Our Veterans received a lot of gifts and enjoyed the festivities we have going on today,” said Oscar Rodriguez, Acting Medical Center Director. “This is our 24th year of this event, it’s getting bigger and bigger. Your contributions make a difference in the lives of Veterans and their families during the holiday season. We’re looking forward to this next year because the Veterans just love it. And that’s what it’s all about, coming together.”
An emotional Wertman emphasized the reason for the annual ride. “Let me tell you something, 24 years, we have never, ever forgot them, so don’t ever, ever forget them.”