Motorcycle event will honor solders killed in Afghanistan

Gone, but never forgotten.

Four S.C. Army National Guard soldiers killed in Afghanistan will be honored for their sacrifice to their comrades and the nation this weekend as members of the 218th Brigade host a motorcycle ride across portions of the Upstate.

During their deployment to the war-torn country, Sgt. Donnie Henderson and other soldiers wondered how best to pay tribute to their fallen comrades. According to Henderson, it was a pretty easy decision as to what type of event they should choose.

"Several of us already knew how to ride," Henderson said. "So while we were in Afghanistan, we kicked around ideas in the sand and ended up with a motorcycle ride."

The event, whose funds will support the children of soldiers hoping to further their education, will begin at the local National Guard Armory with stops scheduled in Union, Chesnee and Spartanburg.

All soldiers will have the opportunity to participate in the fundraiser. Henderson also expects a lot of participation from bike enthusiasts locally in addition to those across county and state lines.

"We have spread word about the ride in North Carolina and a lot of riders have said they are coming," Henderson said. "And those I've talked to locally said this has the potential of being really nice. I'm very excited."

Participation is not limited to motorcycle enthusiasts. Those wanting to ride the route in their cars can also tag along.

"I guess the only ones that probably don't want to make the journey are runners," Henderson said. "That's a pretty long way."