McGuire riders cruise for a cause Published Oct. 7, 2008 By Staff Sgt Francis Lalic 21st Air Mobility Operations Squadron McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. -- To reach out to fellow veterans, Team McGuire motorcycle enthusiasts recently gathered for the Habitat for a Disabled Veteran drive in Freehold, N.J. "It was a great experience seeing 767 bikers come together for one cause," said Tech. Sgt Craig Bittinger, 21st Air Mobility Operations Squadron, who participated in the event. "They came from all over New Jersey and Pennsylvania to help raise money to build a home for a disabled veteran family." The Western Monmouth Habitat for Humanity sponsored the ninth annual motorcycle ride for affordable housing event. During the event, motorcycle riders cruised the roads of Monmouth and Ocean counties with the same mission in mind -- to raise money that will be utilized to build homes for disabled veterans. "The drive was great as we got to take in the country scenery during the two and a half hours across Monmouth and Ocean Counties," Sergeant Bittinger said. "Together we raised $55,000 dollars, which was enough to purchase the building supplies for the home." The organization is an associate of non-profit Habitat for Humanity International, which designed to eliminate substandard housing worldwide and to make adequate and affordable shelters. According to the organization's Web site, Western Monmouth Habitat was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, decent, affordable place to live in dignity and safety. Tech. Sgt. Joshua Ledbetter, 21st AMOS, said Oct. 5 was a good day to be a motorcycle enthusiast. "Not only did I get to ride my bike in ideal weather conditions, but I was able to help a veteran doing so," Sergeant Ledbetter said. "It's a great feeling when you're able to help someone while doing something you love." For more information about volunteer opportunities or donations, visit www.westmonhabitat.org or call James Wishbow at (732) 308-3400 weekday mornings.