"Support Our Soldiers" is a public recognition of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines who so bravely serve, and have served in the past to keep our nation free. It is not a statement either for or against the war, but is simply a nonpartisan effort organized by members of the community to show that we support our service men and women.
The catalyst for this effort began in Buncombe County several weeks ago. Two members of the United States Marine Corps, in full dress uniform, were at the county courthouse taking care of necessary business before they were deployed. As they left the courthouse several people spit at them, called them names, and asked if they were going to go kill more babies. Obviously they were upset, and when some of us in the community learned of what had happened, we were outraged. Thus began an effort to organize a rally to show our soldiers that we love them and appreciate their sacrifice.
The "Support Our Soldiers Rally" will be an event with two parts. On Saturday, March 1, 2003, we will begin with a Prayer Rally at City County Plaza at 1:00 PM. The event will then proceed to the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in the Asheville Civic Center for a Patriotic Rally at 3:00 PM.
In an effort to assist the families of our soldiers, we will be selling "SOS Cards" to raise money to help the families during times of crisis. There cards will include the name of the purchaser and will also include a space to write a note to our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines. The cards will then be forwarded overseas. All proceeds from this event will be distributed by the American Red Cross and the U.S.O. to members of the military and the families they have left behind. (Our books are open to anyone at any time.)
We are pleased to announce that Travis Tritt will open the Patriotic Rally at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, singing our National Anthem. Presentations will be made by Mayor Charles Worley on behalf of the City of Asheville, and by a County Commissioner (the Chairman will be out of town.) Our keynote speaker will be Marine Corps Major General David C. Mize, Commanding General of Camp Lejeune, NC.
Note: SOS is a rally to encourage WNC and the nation to support our troops and their families. It is not a political statement. Sponsors include all area radio stations, the Citizen-Times, WLOS-TV and dozens of other corporations and individuals.
Contributions may be sent to: SOS, P.O. Box 6833, Asheville, NC 28816. For more information contact Bill Fishburne at 828 274-9696 or by e-mail at sos2003@bellsouth.net .
This event is not sponsored by Smoky Mountain HOG and is presented here for information only.
Sponsored by Gene Lummus Harley-Davidson
© 2003 Smoky Mountain Harley Owner's Group
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