BOSTON – American veterans put their lives on the line to save us from enemies. However, when they return to civilian life, they find the transition difficult due to psychological and financial restraints. Boston’s Annual Wounded Vet Bike Run is aimed to support wounded veterans, gathering money for housing modifications, transportation, and basic living needs to improve their quality of life and remind the nation of their worth.
“Veterans from previous wars who had difficulties in the transition to civilian life faced an increased risk of long-term problems that include homelessness and premature mortality” (Ahern et al., 2015, p. 2). Moreover, veterans who received short-term financial assistance were more likely to experience a stable housing destination, so let’s donate to address homelessness among them (Nelson et al., 2021, p. 1).
The Annual Motorcycle Ride campaign aims to support wounded veterans morally and financially. We aim to find other vets who need assistance to improve their lives.
For former soldiers, transitioning to civilian life may be challenging. Some veterans are unable to accept all the benefits society can give them due to serious injuries (Pool, n.d.). Therefore, it is our mission to help them. This year, our honoree Christee Gardner will demonstrate that an active social life after war is possible, even if you are handicapped and have no desire to live.
Boston Wounded Vet Group is a non-profit organization inspired by Cpl. Vincent Mannion Brodeur, was seriously injured while serving in Iraq in 2007 (“They Fought We Ride,” n.d.). The group was established in 2011 in E. Boston, MA, 02128.
References
Ahern, J., Worthen, M., Masters, J., Lippman, S. A., Ozer, E. J., & Moos, R. (2015). The challenges of Afghanistan and Iraq veterans’ transition from military to civilian life and approaches to reconnection. PLOS One, 10(7), 1-13.
Nelson, R. E., Byrne, T. H., Suo, Y., Cook, J., Pettey, W., Gundlapalli, A. V., Greene, T., Gelberg, L., Kertesz, S. G., Tsai, J., & Montgomery, A. E. (2021). Association of temporary financial assistance with housing stability among US veterans in the supportive services for veteran families program. JAMA Netw Open, 4(2), 1-27.
Pool, J. (n.d.). American Veterans Aid.