Georgia Safari International and the Lake Oconee Elks Lodge No. 2849 presented an Honor Ride on Oct. 18 to support wounded veterans.
Veterans and supporters met at Home Depot, and at 10:30 a.m., the procession of bikes and cars, led by Greene County Sheriff Donnie Harrison, began down Hwy. 441 to the Lake Country Elks Lodge on Harmony Road.
Many supporters lined up along sections of 441, waving flags and showing their gratitude to veterans who fought and died for their country.
An Honor Flag Line was formed at the lodge while wounded veterans arrived, and all were saluted as they entered the Elks Lodge. Inside, John White gave a welcome. Hugh Hendrickson gave the invocation, followed by Bill Lewis's Pledge of Allegiance. Scott Deering sang the Star-Spangled Banner.
James Lakeman introduced the event, then introduced the guest speaker, Army Master Sgt. Mike Reynolds. Lunch was served during the presentation.
Reynolds is the founder and chief farming officer of Hero Agriculture. This nonprofit uses farming to help veterans find hope and healing and build purposeful lives after military service. Reynolds was a career paramedic and combat veteran and is now retired.
Georgia Safari International has won the National Humanitarian Award eight times for its support and help of wounded veterans; its primary purpose is to care for these vets.