OSHKOSH, Wis. (WFRV) – Despite the poor weather during the day, motorcyclists gathered in Oshkosh after a ride on Saturday to honor and support veterans who need it most.
The Motorcycle Rides were done to help support while showcasing love and support for veterans living at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King, a long-term rehab care facility.
AirBnb’s nonprofit providing emergency housing for people impacted by flooding in Wisconsin
The facility houses veterans, veterans’ spouses, a surviving spouse and Gold Star Parents, who have lost a child in combat, while providing medical and nursing care to improve quality of life.
All of the money raised at the event went back to helping the Veterans Home at King, which Brenda Feathers, President of the Kindred Heartz Chrome Angelz, said it needs.
“The state isn’t helping; they help a little bit, but a lot of these veterans don’t have money,” Feathers said. “They don’t have anybody to hand them $20 and tell them to go out and eat. They’re handicapped and can’t jump into a vehicle to go out. They need a lot of help.”
Feathers said that about 47 people showed up for the ride, as many backed out from the rain.
“Put your rain gear on, a lot of them won’t do it,” Feathers said. “These guys (veterans) didn’t have a choice, so we’re making the choice to go raise money for them.”
Feathers comes from a family of service members, giving her a passion to help the community, especially the veterans. The event wasn’t just a ride, as everybody gathered at Winkler’s Westward Ho in Oshkosh for food, beverages, live music and raffle baskets. 100% of donations went to the veterans.
Gary Vanderperren, a Past Post Commander of the Redgranite AMVETS Riders of Wisconsin 13, said he used to volunteer at the Veterans House at King. Vanderperren was also a veteran, and he expressed pride in his service time.
“You don’t have to be a veteran to be proud, but they saved us, it’s our time to give back to them,” Vanderperren said. “That’s where my passion comes from.”
About $100,000 raised at Pulling for Honor in Appleton despite early closure due to storms
While the event was small, Vanderperren said it’s meaningful and worthy, one that should open people’s eyes.
Click here to learn more.
