The Cpl Holly Charette Motorcycle Run went on as planned. 77 riders showed up to participate and show there support. As the hours before 10am rolled on brave souls came showing there support for disregard of the weather.
The Run started out at The Rolfe Square Post Office in Cranston, which was dedicated to Holly on October 15, 2006. We had Cranston Mayor Fung and Retired Marine Adjunct General Centracchio speak words to all riders before The Run for Holly got underway. 10:00 am rolled around and all brave riders poured out of the post office following Ed & Regina Roberts in their truck flying an American Flag. They were followed by a Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association motorcycle that flew both the American and The Run for Holly flag. They headed to Veteran's Cemetery where all gathered for words from a member of the Christian Motorcycle Association. Also, TAPS were played, and colors were presented by The Kent County Marine Corp League. From Veterans the group of supporters headed to Scarborough Beach. The weather there was inclement, so only a few minutes were spent there. Everyone got back on their bikes and some in cars to make the final stop to the Cranston Country Club where dinner, raffles, memories, and good times would be shared.
As Ed & Regina made there way into the Country Club with there now soaked supporters followed. They were congratulated on ending the Bike Run portion of the day and into the night to share memories with all that attended. There a DJ played music, pictures were set up showing Holly and her never-ending smile. A Stroke Kindness and Remember Us were played throughout the evening. There were made, and aired on NECN. Also, the warm atmosphere took in all riders that went through rain and wind to show everyone that passed them on the roads or highways that Holly Charette will never be forgotten. Raffles, a silent auction and more importantly dinner/dessert were served throughout the evening. As the night rolled on memories, new and old, were shared. It comes to show that even though the weather is bad, Holly is never forgotten. She lives on through all of us.
THANK YOU TO...
Everyone that came out on a rainy Sunday to remember Holly for all the memories we know and many more that will be made throughout the years.
Cheryl Vandermost/David Lima/ Barbara Dardine from the Patriot Guard Riders for there help organizing the bikes entering/exiting each stop made throughout the run.
All Combat Vets/Andy Martel/Mike Delmazzi/Popey for beads/corsage given,reading the proclamation making September 27th Gold Star Mothers and Family Day, and also helping with directing riders from each stop.
Ray Jackson of the C.M.A (Christian Motorcycle Association) for the prayer at Veterans Memorial Cemetery
Mike Jackson for playing TAPS.
Kent County Marine Corp. League Honor Guard for presenting colors
All sponsors and companies that gave this bike run amazing raffles items or donations to the Scholarship Fund
ALL committee members that spend months planning, and making this event run smoothly with every turn and twist. Without them the run would of never started in the first place.
PEACE FOR YOU ALL
All money that was raised went to the Cpl. Holly Charette Scholarship Fund. The dinner where 2 recipients will be awarded the scholarship with be held October 10, 2009 at the Fireman's Hall in East Greenwich. Info on this event is located on the Scholarship Dinner page. Check it out for ticket prices, times, and information regarding sponsorship/donating/ticket price.
