Wounded warriors get royal welcome during beach trip

Steve Mason, left, past state commander for the Department of Maryland VFW, William “Doc” Schmitz, investigator general for the National VFW, and Tom Kimball, from VFW #194 in Salisbury, want to assure veterans have a peer group to support their transition back to civilian life.

With the thunderous roar of 175 motorcycles announcing their arrival on Tuesday, the Maryland Wounded Warriors Program brought three busloads of veterans to Ocean City this week for three days of relaxation and bonding.

Since 2006, the Department of Maryland Veterans of Foreign Wars has brought a multitude of soldiers from nearby military medical and treatment centers for a tranquil visit to the shore.

Tom Kimball, from VFW #194 in Salisbury, is chairman of the Maryland Wounded Warriors program. He said since so many veterans deserve a break that it can be challenging to be equitable.

“Some want to come back every year, but I try to get new faces in,” he said.

With help from the Hogs and Heroes Foundation Maryland Chapter 8, who were escorted by the Maryland State Police and the Wicomico Sheriff’s Office, the veterans received a hero’s welcome. They also were treated to a catered feast upon their arrival at the Princess Royale Hotel uptown on Coastal Highway.

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