Her work with the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association on its charity rides, and Wheels 4 Warriors USA, are just a few examples. “I don’t own a motorcycle, but I can serve a slice of pie or hand out Bingo cards or even pamphlets,” Erin laughed. “There’s something for everyone to do.”
Before Christmas, she also participates in what she describes as one of her “most humbling acts,” placing wreaths on the graves at Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery, the final resting place for more than 18,000 soldiers. “It’s so emotional when you think of their ultimate sacrifice,” Erin said.
With her son, Ryan, and daughter, Hannah, both serving in the Marine Corps, Erin also intentionally seeks projects that assist service personnel as well as their families. As a USO volunteer, she has greeted and served enlistees in St. Louis and Columbia at hospitality stops. She looks forward to volunteering at the newest USO at the new Kansas City International Airport.
One of her favorite activities is helping soldiers who may be without transportation. Erin remembered how she appreciated the help her son received last Christmas when his flight was canceled. “People were so kind to help him get home for the Christmas holiday. We want to pay back and help other families.” Erin encourages all of us to give back to our military service personnel. “See how you can match what you like to do with an activity. You can never volunteer enough or too little.”
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