MYRTLE BEACH, S.C., July 30 -- A Fort Bragg
soldier recently returned from Afghanistan received a Harley Davidson
Sportster during an Appreciation Ceremony in the Hall of Heroes at
the Rawcliffe Center in Myrtle Beach, South
Carolina. The donation was made by Lee Rawcliffe, owner of Sands Resorts and Don Allen, CEO of American Veterans Traveling
Tribute ("AVTT"). A second soldier will be receiving a Sportster in the fall.
The soldiers, randomly selected as the Operation Gratitude milestone
500,000th Care Package recipients last December, are US Army Staff Sgt. William Fullerton, a squad leader from 82nd Division
Special Troops Battalion and US Army Sgt. Michael Herne, an infantryman with 82nd Airborne
Division.
SSG Fullerton on his Harley  |
During the presentation ceremony, Staff Sgt. Fullerton
graciously accepted his gift as family, friends, and military supporters
applauded the efforts of all servicemen. A luncheon and reception
followed. A similar event is planned for Sgt. Herne in the coming
weeks.
"Our purpose is to show continuous support for
Americans who protect our country," said Lee Rawcliffe. "Our plans include more
future recognitions to these courageous Americans." In 2009, Sands
Resorts dedicated the Hall of Heroes as a tribute to American Heroes.
Since then, there have been ongoing projects to recognize both Wounded
Warriors and VFWs.
Operation Gratitude sends care packages filled with fifty
or more assorted snack, entertainment and personal care items to US Service
Members deployed in combat. The
volunteer-based non-profit will send its 600,000th care package this
December.
