Veterans enjoy car, bike show at Nebraska State Fair

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) - To continue its salute to veterans and active military members, the Nebraska State Fair put on a Car and Motorcycle Show and Shine Monday.

People checked out dozens of classic cars and motorcycles that lined the parking lot near the Heartland Events Center.

“When we came back from Vietnam, we didn’t get this,” said Mike McMullen, a Vietnam and Desert Storm veteran.

McMullen traveled 165 miles from eastern Nebraska to show his motorcycle at the fair.

He said events like the car and bike show are a great way to build friendships between veterans. He said the annual Vietnam Vet Reunion was cancelled this year due to COVID-19, so this was a way to get everyone out together.

In addition to the comradery, McMullen said these events shine some light on the mental health of veterans.

“A lot of guys are coming out the woodwork now as far as PTSD,” McMullen said. “I’ve had issues with it too. The older you get in life it seems the stuff you did when you were 20-years-old is starting to bother you a lot more.”

McMullen’s close friend died two years ago from congestive heart failure and health issues related to Agent Orange. It’s been a long road, but McMullen said all he can do is move forward.

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