Rally-goers remember troops, honor freedom - KOTA Territory News

Rally-goers remember troops, honor freedom

Sturgis is a week most people associate with hard partying bikers and fast motorcycles.

But it's generally a patriotic group.  There's more than one opportunity to give back to the men and women who are overseas, fighting for the freedoms rally- goers relish.

Fighting in the Vietnam war, veteran Allan O'Brochta remembers a lonely deployment, followed by a very cold welcome stateside.

"When we got back to the states it was terrible. After the Iraq war, that all changed. I like what they're doing for the troops now," said O'Brochta, of St. Louis, Missouri.

More than 50 Ellsworth airmen and women are doing their part at the Sturgis rally to help let troops know- they're appreciated.

"To have this stuff makes your life so much easier down range, you feel better, appreciated by people back home," said Sergeant Shane Christian of Ellsworth air force base.

Volunteers hope to pack at least 7,500 care packages Tuesday, with simple items like a pack of peanuts, that they say make a big difference to those overseas.

"From tooth brushes to popcorn, beef jerky, something to cheer them up while they're away," said Christian.

"It's incredibly important for them to receive these packages. Shows someone is thinking about them, touched by an individual they would never meet," said USO account manager Emily Branch.

While rally-goers revel in the freedoms protected by the troops overseas, organizers say there's no lack of appreciation in Sturgis this week.

"Bikers...they make good soldiers and a lot of them turned into bikers, given time. I like riding my Harley back then and I still like it now," said O'Brochta.

It's efforts like this, O'Brochta says that would've made all the difference to him and his fellow airmen, all those years ago.

"A lot of guys it really depressed them, they would've liked to get something from home. The troops are serving the county, putting their life on the line. People ought to take notice and show some appreciation for them," said O'Brochta.

Organizers say since beginning the Toast to Troops event 12 years ago, they've sent 170,000 care packages overseas.

Each package comes with a handwritten note of support.