SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Approximately 200 motorcyclists, including U.S. Senator Joe Manchin, took part in the fourth annual Ride for Fallen Service Heroes Saturday.
The ride began in South Charleston, hit the halfway point in Summersville before circling back to West Virginia National Guard headquarters in Charleston.
Money raised from the ride will benefit the West Virginia National Guard Foundation, the families of Fallen Service Members and the establishment of a new Gold Star monument in West Virginia.
“This is an opportunity to raise money for an event that we hold the last week of September to take care of our Gold Star families,” state Adjutant General Jim Hoyer told MetroNews affiliate WMOV Radio Saturday.
Manchin said sometimes the families of those who have given their all are forgotten.
“I want to let them know that in West Virginia they are not forgotten and we are going to be there to support them through the National Guard Foundation,” Manchin said.
Manchin said the event is a great one for motorcyclists who are known for meeting needs.
“They just look for a cause to help people,” he said. “Whether it’s a family in need who have medical bills they need help with and most importantly they give back to the military.”
Saturday’s event was the fourth annual and was expected to raise about $70,000. Manchin, who serves as road captain, credits Harley-Davidson in South Charleston and area police departments for making sure the ride goes smoothly.
WMOV Reporter Joe Stevens contributed to this story.