Tribute to Troops visits families of fallen vets on the Oregon South Coast

COOS COUNTY, Ore. - The National Veteran Organization, Tribute to the Troops, makes it's way to the south coast for the weekend.

Over 100 motorcycles traveled far and wide to pay tribute to the families that lost loved ones during their time in the military. Their first stop was the family of Bryan Bertrand, whom an upcoming veteran housing project is named for.

The Oregon chapter began as a way of healing for Jennifer McKinley. Her son, Eric, was killed in Iraq.

“After our son was killed in June 2004, we were looking for something to fill the void of the loss of our son," said McKinley.

She and her husband met the national co-founder, Rockie Lynne in 2010.

They started the Oregon chapter a year later. They honored seven different families over a two-day motorcycle ride starting Friday morning.

“To let them know that there is a community of Gold Star families out here, that we want to support each other and help each other get through the loss,” said McKinley. “I think it helps the families as much as it helps us."

"I grew up in an orphanage in North Carolina and so the first person to say anything positive to me or point me in the right direction were the sergeants when I went into the military myself,” said Lynne.

After writing his song "Home" while in service, U.S. Army veteran and singer-songwriter Rockie Lynne co-founded the organization in 2004 that's grown, one motorcycle ride at a time.

“This is about the outcome, and about being able to go and say thank you to those families. It means everything to me, I'm honored to be here,” said Lynne.

They raise money for the Fallen Heroes' Children Education fund, a 529 college savings plan for those that lost a parent in active duty and appreciate donations.

The organization is open to motorcycle companions, volunteers and donations. You can visit their website more more information here.