PATRICK COUNTY – Every year for more than a decade, motorcyclists from all over the country meet in Patrick County to honor a man who dedicated his life to serving others.
The annual memorial motorcycle ride which will be held Saturday is not only a way for fellow veterans and servicemen to remember fallen Marine Jonathan Williams Bowling, it is also a chance for these men and women to continue his legacy of serving and giving back to the community.
The event begins at 10 AM at Patrick County High School at 215 Cougar Lane in Stuart and features live music, food, and door prizes. The ride begins at noon. Registration is $15 per vehicle, and each entrant has a chance to win prizes. Trophies are given for the farthest traveled bike.
All the proceeds from the ride will go toward the Corporal Jonathan W. Bowling Memorial Scholarship at Patrick Henry Community College which was established in his honor. Bowling was a police officer, firefighter, elder at his church, and a corporal in the United States Marines. In 2005 during deployment in Iraq, he gave the ultimate sacrifice. Because Bowling was also an avid biker, the Chapter 11 Red Knights Motorcycle Club formed an annual bike ride to preserve his memory.
“Every year, we are touched by the number of riders who come to honor the life and legacy of Corporal Jonathan Williams Bowling,” says Tiffani Underwood, the Interim Director for PHCC’s Foundation.
“Through the Bowling Memorial Scholarship, the memory of this true American hero can continue to inspire and empower students. PHCC is honored by this gift and honored to participate with the Bowling family to preserve Corporal Bowling's memory.”
Each year, the Corporal Jonathan W. Bowling Memorial fund provides money for two Patrick County students to attend PHCC each year. Students with a desire to enter into public service are given priority. To learn more about the ride, the scholarship, or Bowling’s life visit www.cpljonathanbowling.us.