Carson City World War II Veteran surprised with Harley-Davidson celebration for 100th Birthday
Submitted by Kelsey Penrose on Sat, 09/03/2022 - 11:27am
"I am going to remember this for the rest of my life," said World War II Army veteran Rolland 'Ron' Carter on the morning of his 100th birthday.
Ron was surprised with a birthday bash befitting of his centennial achievement and his love of motorcycles.
During the war, Ron was an ambulance operator, saving his fellow brothers-in-arms on the battlefield. Originally from Evansville, Ind., Ron would travel all over the US, opening churches.
He was also a Baptist minister who served nine churches in Nevada, Oregon, and California, and a music teacher with a Doctorate in Education. In addition to the ministry, Ron also played Trombone in the Columbia River Symphony, and was a licensed pilot.
As he became older, Ron always told his family that on his 100th birthday, he was going to ride his motorcycle, and up until moving into the Carson Tahoe Expressions Memory Care in April this year, he was still riding that motorcycle.
With award-winning memory care programming, Carson Tahoe Expressions Memory Care is an industry-leading community for those living with Alzheimer's Disease or dementia, according to Micki Dixon, Community Relations Director.
"Organizing this event was one of the most rewarding things I have done in my career," said Dixon. "I loved working with Ron's family, the HOG group, and Battle Born Harley-Davidson to bring such a fun idea to life. This morning went wonderful, and it was everything I hoped for."
The Expressions program allows staff to get to know their residents before they joining the community to provide the personalized and elevated care they deserve, said Dixon.
Ron's family stood behind him with "great pride and honor" as dozens of motorcycles roared into Carson Tahoe Expressions Memory Care parking lot.
"When I started hearing what the facility was planning to do, I couldn't think of a better tribute to him," said Ron's wife Margaret Slagle. "This is over the top. I can't thank enough the Harley guys for all this."
Battle Born Harley-Davidson partnered with Carson Tahoe Expressions Memory Care to help celebrate Ron's 100th birthday.
"When we were told about Ron, and that he was a war veteran that is turning 100, there was no way we were going to pass this up," said Craig Berry of Harley-Davidson. "What he has done for this country and what it means to all of us. If it weren't for that man, we wouldn't be doing what we are doing today. It's an honor."
Ron was also presented with the American flag and a memorable ride along the back of a Harley-Davidson.
