NEWS

WIRES

OTHER

Myrtle Beach's Sands Resorts and American Veterans Traveling Tribute Show Military Appreciation

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Two deployed 82nd Airborne Division Paratroopers serving in Afghanistan recently opened care packages from Operation Gratitude and each found keys to a new Harley Davidson Sportster. The motorcycles were appreciation gifts from Sands Resorts and AVTT.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100211/CL53814-a )

The new owners are US Army Staff Sgt. William Fullerton, a squad leader with Company B, 82nd Division Special Troops Battalion and US Army St. Michael Herne, an infantryman with Company A, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. Each will find their new motorcycles awaiting them after redeployment from Afghanistan. "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. Fullerton, a native of Quincy, Mass. was very happy because his wife likes motorcycles and it will be a treat for her.

The two motorcycles were purchased by Mr. Lee Rawcliffe, Owner and CEO of Sands Resorts and Mr. Don Allen, CEO of AVTT. They asked Operation Gratitude to assist in the random selection of two soldiers. Operation Gratitude is a non-profit organization that puts together care packages for Service members who are deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan.

"Our purpose is to show continuous support for the Americans who protect our country," said Lee Rawcliffe. In 2009, Sands Resorts dedicated Hall of Heroes, a tribute to American Heroes throughout the history of our country. Additionally, Sands Resorts and AVTT have partnered on various projects of gratitude 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 more than 35 years. Their collection of seven 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, popular oceanfront restaurants and lounges, two spas, health club, indoor/outdoor pools, lazy rivers, and Kid's programs. Sands Resorts is home to nationally known Ocean Annie's Beach Bar and Mango's on the Beach. It is also the site for Hall of Heroes, a Tribute to American 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 that travels 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 contacting Don Allen at donallen@avtt.org.

SOURCE Sands Resorts