Second Soldier Receives Motorcycle From Myrtle Beach's Sands Resorts and American Veterans Traveling Tribute

A Fort Bragg soldier recently back from Afghanistan accepted a long-awaited gift that started with his care package.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101006/CL78013 )

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20101006/CL78013 )

U. S. Army Staff Sergeant Michael Herne, an infantryman with the 82nd Airborne Division, is the second soldier who found motorcycle keys in his care package. Herne received his Harley Davidson Sportster on Friday, October 1, 2010 in Hall of Heroes at The Rawcliffe Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, SC.

Two motorcycles were donated by Lee Rawcliffe, owner of Sands Resorts and Don Allen, CEO of American Veterans Traveling Tribute to show their appreciation to men and women serving in the U.S. Military. They asked Operation Gratitude to assist in the random selection of two soldiers.

What a surprise when Staff Sergeant Herne opened the package. "I'm still in shock from winning so I'm a little lost for words. It's the coolest thing I've received in my life," said Herne, a native of Addison, NY. Staff Sergeant William Fullerton, with 82nd Division Special Troops Battalion, received his gift during a similar ceremony in July.

"Continuous support for Americans who protect our country is our mission," said Lee Rawcliffe. In 2009, Sands Resorts dedicated Hall of Heroes as a tribute to all American Heroes throughout history. Additionally, Sands Resorts and AVTT have partnered on various gratitude projects for Wounded Warriors and VFWs.

About Sands Resorts

Sands Resorts in Myrtle Beach, SC has been the leading provider of beach and golf vacations for over 35 years. Their collection of six oceanfront resorts includes over 1600 guest accommodations. All are convenient to golf, dining, shopping, entertainment and attractions.

The hotels are highlighted with 28,000 square feet of meeting space, a waterpark, oceanfront restaurants and lounges, spas, health clubs, indoor/outdoor pools, lazy rivers, and Kid's programs. Sands Resorts is home to nationally known Ocean Annie's Beach Bar, Mango's on the Beach and Hall of Heroes.

More information is available at www.sandsresorts.com or by calling (877) 322-3224.

About American Veterans Traveling Tribute

AVTT is a veteran-owned project traveling the USA to provide a forum for communities to HONOR-RESPECT-REMEMBER those who have sacrificed their lives for our country's freedom. AVTT honors Veterans and those currently serving and is funded through sponsorship fees, donations, and sale of merchandise at events. Donations to support AVTT's mission are through The Traveling Wall Foundation.

More information is available at www.avtt.org or by calling 888-592-2052.