NVAO Members,
Another wonderful National Veterans Awareness Ride is done. The bikes need washing and our bodies need to get some sleep (and maybe some washing, too!).
Despite a few days of chilly weather and rain, the VA Hospitals and Homes were very accommodating and let us go inside to see as many Veterans as possible.
The Board of Directors would like to thank the NVAR Ride Staff. Everyone did a great job. We’d like to call out a few folks for going above and beyond. Libby Taylor-Worden’s writing of the Situation Reports each day was beautiful. If you haven’t had a chance to read the Sit Reps, check them out on our website (nvao.us).
Our Chase Truck/Merchandise Managers. Mike, Kat, Donna, Ricky and Kim did a terrific job handling all the issues involved with the Chase Truck and trailer (and thanks to Eddie for keeping ice and water in the cooler).
Greg Miller volunteered to bring his trumpet and play Taps at the Wall and at Brad Clemmons’ memorial ceremony.
Jim Depner gets a gold star for helping fix a bunch of motorcycle problems.
Debi Crawford finished her first year as Motel Manager and did a great job.
And, of course, thanks to all of the State Coordinators. making sure all of the elements run smoothly… escorts, meals, hospitals, homes, memorial services, and schools…oh my.
Attached are several photos that represent the three elements of successfully accomplishing our mission:
1. Our visits to the VA Hospitals and Homes and showing the patients and residents that they are not forgotten is a critical part of our mission. The first photo is of a Veteran who was playing his guitar like Johnny B. Good. He had the door open to his room in the VA Hospital and one by one, the NVAR riders stopped in to see what the beautiful music was all about. We enjoyed the concert, and the Veteran was thrilled to have a receptive audience.
2. The second part of our mission is to remember those military persons who are no longer with us. The second photo is a group showing respect to a person whose name is on the Wall in Washington, DC.
3. The third part of our mission is to interact with young people across the country and plant the seeds of patriotism and service to the community and the nation.
And finally, the fourth photo was taken by Blake Hutchinson. Blake is always waiting for us in Wendover, NV. Along with Jason Stephenson (Utah State Coordinator) and the Utah riders, it’s a cool experience to meet up with our buddies for the ride to the Utah State Veterans Home in Salt Lake City.
Thanks to all participants in the 2025 National Veterans Awareness Ride. See you next year.
Be Careful out there.
The NVAO Board of Directors
