Military retirees, active-duty servicemembers, and civilians from across the nation rode to El Paso to donate to charity and reflect on the heritage of the Buffalo Soldier Motorcycle Club. “We can never give back enough,” said Ret. Army Sgt. Maj. Nathan “Motown” Mack, President of EPBSMC. Mack said, participating motorcyclists donated more than one-thousand dollars to the Salvation Army.
To club member and Ret. Army non-commissioned officer, John Smithdavis, donating to the Salvation Army is personal. “When I give back to the community, I give back to myself,” said Smithdavis.During a bout of homelessness prior to his enlistment in the U.S. Army, the Salvation Army gave Smithdavis temporarily lodging. Smithdavis said, members of the EPBSMC also donate time, clothes, and toys to the Salvation Army.
The ride began with the remembrance of 42 Buffalo soldiers buried at Fort Bliss’ Concordia Cemetery. Motorcyclists rode from the cemetery to Fort Bliss’ historic Pershing House, which is named after the former 10th Cavalry Commander.
The Barnett Harley-Davidson store was the last stop along the route. Sherman H. Barnett, owner of Barnett Harley-Davidson, said this was the first time the store hosted EPBSMC, and that he enjoys sponsoring charitable groups. Barnett-Harley averages five to six events a year for veterans.
“Veterans should always be recognized for their service,” said Mark Barnett, General Manager of Barnett Harley-Davidson. “For just about everyone in El Paso, helping out with an event for soldiers is both a pleasure and a duty.”