MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Classic cars, motorcycles, trucks, rat rods and Jeeps will gather Sunday at the Reno County Veterans Memorial for an annual fundraiser supporting local veterans organizations and the memorial itself.
The Reno County Veterans Memorial Bike, Car and Truck Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday at the memorial site along Des Moines Avenue in South Hutchinson. Organizer Joey Reed says the event is open to the public and vehicle owners can participate through free-will donations.
Reed, a retired U.S. Navy chief and longtime organizer of the event, said the show began in 2012 and has evolved into a gathering that promotes camaraderie among veterans while raising money for the Reno County Veterans Memorial, the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
"Our goal was to raise funds to support the wall," Reed said. "But it's also about bringing people together."
The event predates the memorial itself. Reed said the first show held at the memorial site took place in 2017, before the names of veterans had been added to the structure. The memorial honors Reno County veterans and serves as a place for reflection and remembrance.
In addition to the vehicle displays, representatives from the VFW and American Legion will be available to provide information about veterans services, membership opportunities and eligibility requirements for having veterans' names added to the memorial wall.
Reed expanded this year's show to include Jeep enthusiasts, joining the Salt City Cruisers and other participants. Reed said he expects a strong turnout from local Jeep clubs and car enthusiasts from across the area.
The event will officially begin with a flag-raising ceremony at approximately 9:30 a.m., featuring participation from the American Legion Riders.
Reed emphasized that the show relies heavily on volunteers, sponsors and community support, particularly businesses from South Hutchinson. He said the focus is not on growing the event into a large commercial show but on maintaining its community atmosphere and support for veterans.
"It's veterans helping veterans," Reed said. "The people that come to the show are the ones that make the show."
The Reno County Veterans Memorial is located near the Love's Travel Stop in South Hutchinson. Organizers encourage residents to attend, visit with veterans and enjoy the variety of vehicles on display while supporting local veterans causes.