HUNTSVILLE – For the fourth year, the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association 28-2 has teamed up with Drake State Community & Technical College’s Veteran & Military Affairs office to bring Christmas to the veteran students.

The CVMA recently visited campus with Publix gift cards to help cover the cost of groceries for the upcoming holiday season. The veterans were also provided lunch by the Drake State Veteran & Military Affairs office.

Drake State has 58 students who are veterans – one of every 12 students. The school recently was awarded the silver distinction as a 2023-2024 Military Friendly school by VIQTORY.

“We are blessed to be able to assist veterans and their dependents with educational goals, but more importantly, it is an honor to be a part of the Veteran community helping each other,” said Drake State Veteran Affairs Coordinator Neoka Hambrick. “Our goal is to help our veterans over the challenges of being both a student and a veteran, and partnering with organizations like the CVMA is one of the many ways we can offer our support.” 

The North Alabama CVMA 28-2 chapter shares the mission of supporting veterans from all military branches and raised $6,000 for this season’s initiative.

“As a combat veteran, proud father of three former Drake State students, husband to another, and a former Drake State student myself, I know firsthand the challenges that come with being a student Veteran at the college, especially around Christmas,” said Sergeant at Arms Aaron Lewis. “We are proud to continue this initiative for the fourth year, and we encourage others to find ways to give back to our local veteran population this season.” 

For information about Drake State Veterans’ Services, visit drakestate.edu/student-services/veteran-military-affairs/.