NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. – Big Nick’s Ride for the Fallen has received its largest sponsorship donation since the event began.
The annual motorcycle ride from Bourne to Yarmouth is in honor of Nicholas Xiarhos, a Marine killed in Afghanistan in 2009, and 13 other Cape Codders who have died in service since 9/11.
Proceeds from the ride benefit local military families in need, wounded warriors and their families, Gold Star families, and members of law enforcement.
The Ocean State Job Lot Charitable Foundation donated $2,500 which prompted organizers of the event to create a new “Valor Sponsorship” level for the event.
“Ocean State Job Lot has a long tradition of honoring and supporting active duty and retired military service members and their families through donations and discounts,” said David Sarlitto, the executive director of the charitable foundation. “It’s our way of expressing gratitude for all that military personnel have done and are doing for our country. Sponsorship of this annual ride which raises awareness and funds to honor and support local fallen heroes and Gold Star families was a natural fit for our charitable mission, and we are honored to be part of this important annual event.”
The event is Sunday with ceremonies kicking off at 9 a.m. at the County Sheriff’s Complex.
The ride begins at 10 a.m. and travels to Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School in Yarmouth.
The cost to participate is $20, which includes the ride and lunch. T-shirts will be sold at the end of the ride for $10.
The fourteen Cape Codders killed serving our country since 9/11 are:
United States Army Staff Sergeant Alicia A. Birchett of Mashpee
United States Army Private First Class Paul E. Conlon of Mashpee
United States Navy Captain Gerald F. DeConto of Sandwich
United States Army Sergeant Alexander H. Fuller of Barnstable
United States Army Sergeant Matthew R. Gallagher of Falmouth
United States Navy SEAL Kevin A. Houston of Barnstable
United States Marine Captain Eric A. Jones of Mashpee
United States Marine Private First Class Daniel A.C. McGuire of Mashpee
United States Army Sergeant Matthew A. Pucino of Bourne
United States Army Private First Class Clinton E. Springer II of Bourne
United States Army Sergeant Zachary D. Tellier of Falmouth
United States Army Sergeant Mark R. Vecchione of Eastham
Commander Francis T Williams of Sandwich
United States Marine Corporal Nicholas G. Xiarhos of Yarmouth.