The roar of motorcycle engines, the shine of chrome handlebars and classic car trims, the smell of rubber hitting the road, and a feeling of deep connection marked the 7th Annual Honor Ride & Car Show.

One Sept. 19, Veteran riders and supporters across South Carolina came together for a day dedicated to honoring Veterans in end-of-life care. The event supports Veterans Last Patrol, a nonprofit that connects Veterans undergoing palliative care with fellow Veterans.

Beyond the motorcycles, cars and miles traveled, the heart of the event was much simpler: making sure that Veterans approaching the final chapters of their lives know they are seen, remembered and never forgotten.

"I had the privilege of joining the Columbia route, representing the South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs and riding alongside members of the Veteran Community who share a commitment to continue serving those who once served us," SCDVA Upstate Pathfinder Manager Tito Vazquez said.

Veteran's Last Patrol

Veteran’s Last Patrol is dedicated to bringing friendship, recognition and honor to Veterans during the final chapter of their lives.

For some veterans, particularly those from generations that returned home to a very different reception than service members experience today, a handshake, conversation or simple “thank you” can carry tremendous meaning.

"The mission serves as an important reminder that our commitment to veterans does not end when their uniform comes off. It doesn’t end with retirement, age, disability or when a Veteran enters hospice or end-of-life care," Vazquez said. "That is why showing up matters."

Honor Ride

The honor ride demonstrated the strength of South Carolina's Veteran community. Inside the convoy of riders were members of the Warhorse Brotherhood Motorcycle Club, American Legion Riders, Veterans, and community supporters. Each rider came from different backgrounds, representing different organizations and branches of service, but during this special event, their patches and affiliations took a back seat to one shared mission: serving those who once served us and making sure their service and sacrifices have not been forgotten.

While the sight and sound of motorcycles traveling together was impressive, some of the most powerful moments during the event happened after the engines turned off.

At each stop, riders stepped away from their motorcycles to shake hands, talk and spend time with Veterans and residents. Some greeted the riders from their wheelchairs and walkers. Others greeted the riders with smiles and handshakes, sharing in conversation with those who came to honor them.

"As the Upstate Pathfinder Manager for SCDVA, much of my work involves connecting veterans and their families with resources, organizations and people who can assist them. But days like this are reminders that serving veterans cannot always be measured by a benefit, referral or program," Vazquez said. "It is shaking a veteran’s hand, it's listening to a story, it's sitting beside someone who served decades before you did."

And on this special event, it's the sound of motorcycles approaching and knowing they are there for them.

"The motorcycles get us there. The Veterans are the reason we ride," Vazquez said.