Organization: Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Patriot Guard Riders and Wisconsin Vietnam Veterans Memorial Project
Volunteer Service: Since 2014

Tell us about your military service and experience.

I have 20 years of experience in the U.S. Army with four deployments. I have led up to 30,000 soldiers, serving from stations in Washington, Wisconsin, Texas and Georgia. My military experience has helped me look at problems and find solutions—seeing the bigger strategy and how I can help make an impact.

What is the mission of your organizations?
The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) is a group of veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces who ride motorcycles as a hobby and use that platform to raise awareness and funds for veteran causes across the country. The Patriot Guard Riders honors fallen service members, first responders and military veterans. They also honor active-duty members through Send-Offs and Welcome Home missions and connect members to community services. The Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Project raises funds to build and maintain The Highground Veterans Memorial Park just outside of Neillsville, Wis.

How did you get involved with these organizations?
I first got involved with the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association in 2014 when a fellow veteran invited me to join an upcoming meeting. I was already an avid motorcycle rider and looking to do something fun. It turned out to be a great opportunity to meet other veterans and has introduced me to other organizations that support veterans. 

In what ways have you volunteered with them?
I organize and participate in charity motorcycle rides that help raise funds and awareness for veteran causes. Through my involvement, I have participated in rides all around the United States. Just this year I helped organize a charity ride for The Highground Veteran Memorial Park. I also help the Patriot Guard Riders at military funerals, standing in the flag line and escorting the procession to the veteran’s final resting place. I have also participated with organizations as I am exposed to them, such as with Honor Flights where I’ve written letters to veterans, so they have a message of thanks to read as part of their experience on their trip.

What is the most rewarding part of volunteering with these organizations?
The most rewarding part is the camaraderie with other veterans. My involvement helps me learn about different veteran organizations and exposes me to other veterans who I can talk to about similar experiences in the service. By meeting other veterans, we can help each other with the transition back in civilian life and be a helping hand or lend an ear to talk to in tougher times.

Can you share a memorable experience as part of your involvement?
One of the best rides I’ve done was in support of a new homeless shelter in Texas. During the ride I ran into a friend that I was deployed with who I hadn’t seen in over 10 years. It was a great reward that rides have the ability to bring us together again.

How has volunteering influenced you?
It has offered the opportunity to reflect on my experiences with those who can relate along with a community of support. Spending time with other veterans, especially those who served in WWII and Vietnam, is a humbling experience. It’s amazing to hear what they’ve gone through.

What have you learned about your community through your involvement?
I have learned that there is a lot more going on in our community than most people know, and your involvement can help you meet people while helping others in the process. For example, I’ve learned about so many veteran services I didn’t know existed until I started volunteering, such as Sofas for Service in Eau Claire that helps furnish a veteran’s home. Learning more about these organizations helps me share their mission more broadly to those who may benefit from their service.

Why is it important to give back to the communities we serve?
It’s important to give back because there is always a need wherever you are. Volunteering is healthy, and provides you with a peace of mind and a great opportunity to meet new people.

What advice would you give other colleagues looking to start volunteering?
Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zone to get involved. There’s a lot of organizations that would appreciate the extra help and opportunity to show you what they’re all about, no matter how much time you have to give.

How can colleagues get involved with your organizations?
I’d encourage you to check out our chapter’s Facebook pages or reach out to me directly.