VAOV and SkillsUSA Honor Our Veterans: A Special Surprise for Tyrone and Nikki

In a heartwarming ceremony of family and friends, two deserving veterans, Coach Tyrone Rice and Coach Nikki Hudach, were honored for their service and commitment to our country. Tyrone served in the Air Force, while Nikki proudly represented the Navy. Both veterans were surprised by Hugh Coryea, President of the Veterans and Agent Orange Veterans Project during an afterschool practice with the youth tennis team from Flywheel Sports Based Youth Development, an organization dedicated to empowering young people through sports and community service.

The event was made even more special by the involvement of the SkillsUSA Opening and Closing Team from Lawrence County Career and Technical Center (CTC), who played a supporting role in the ceremony. These dedicated students not only helped with the event but will also serve as assistants during the veterans' upcoming trip to Washington, D.C., in September. The trip, organized by the Veterans and Agent Orange Veterans project, aims to provide the veterans with a chance to visit memorials and landmarks that honor their sacrifices.

The ceremony was a meaningful opportunity to bring together generations of service members, as well as youth from the local community. The partnership between Flywheel Sports, SkillsUSA, and the veterans highlights the power of teamwork, service, and respect for those who have served our country.

Both Tyrone and Nikki were deeply moved by the support they received from the community and their family and friends. As they prepare for their trip to Washington, D.C., they are reminded that their service is appreciated and that the values of honor, sacrifice, and duty continue to inspire and unite people across generations.

We look forward to the veterans' upcoming trip and the continued collaboration between these incredible organizations. Thank you, Tyrone and Nikki, for your service, and thank you to everyone who helped make this day memorable!