Benefit held for veterans

  • Published
  • By Airman Allison M. Boehm
  • 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs
More than 500 individuals attended the Veterans for Veterans event Nov. 8 at the Overton Brooks Veterans Affairs Hospital in Shreveport, La.

This year marked the fourth year of the event. Each year, the event raises money and awareness for the disabled veterans. In the past three years, Veterans for Veterans has raised more than $20,000, which goes to the patients of Overton Brooks Veterans Affairs Hospital.

The event featured an auction, bike show, belly-dance performance and several other amenities. A blood drive was also set in place along with a flu vaccination booth.

"We put this event on to give the local community an opportunity to show the veterans how much we appreciate them and what they did for us," said Theresa Sullivan, event chairman.

Col. Robert Wheeler, 2d Bomb Wing commander and Bossier City Mayor Lorenz Walker spoke on behalf of the event.

"Your push to help all veterans is critical to our mission, especially in a time of war. I personally want to thank you for your dedication to our nation, to these heroes who are in these hospitals and for taking your extra time to organize this event and provide money to make a difference in the lives of our veterans," said Colonel Wheeler.

The Barksdale Freedom Riders along with numerous other motorcyclists, paraded to display unity and pay tribute to the veterans. The four-mile route geared the parade across town to pass by where many veterans live. Police officers from Bossier City and Shreveport donated their time and service to help safe guard the parade route.