The Generous Spirit: Inaugural Rocky Point Patriot Run supports local students and veterans
March 10, 2026
By Karen Owens, Publisher
On November 8, 2025, the VFW Post 6444 hosted 67 participants for its inaugural Rocky Point Patriot 5K/10K Trail Run/Walk at the Choppee Recreation Center. Runners and walkers enjoyed the beautiful weather while traversing the wooded trails of the Rocky Point Community Forest to benefit programs that support Georgetown area veterans and students from Plantersville Elementary School.
Presented by the Andy Quattlebaum and Blackwell Family Foundation, the race was an incredible success, raising $2,200 to further strengthen programs and services the Post delivers throughout the community. 
According to Post Commander Major Edward J. Dennis, the VFW has recently supported the following activities from the race’s proceeds:
- Hosted a special luncheon honoring three WWII Veterans, each 100 years old. Being able to honor these remarkable heroes was truly meaningful, and it was great to hear their patriotic stories, including this one from Jack: 100-Year-Old WWII Veteran’s Powerful Words on Freedom & Love of America
- Awarded $100 to the post selected winners of both Patriots Pen and Voice of Democracy essays. These students advanced to the District competition followed by State and National. Investing in local students and encouraging civic leadership are core components of the Post’s mission.
- Awarded $200 to the post selected Teacher of the Year in recognition of the civic minded leadership she instills in her students.
- Honored 32 Veteran Nursing Home residents across three Georgetown facilities with a Veteran Pin and Ceremony on Veteran’s Day. These ceremonies brought joy, pride, and recognition to those who served, thanks to the generous support of the race participants and sponsors.
“Another highlight of this year’s event was the incredible enthusiasm from our participants, with many expressing how much they enjoyed the Rocky Point Patriot Run and are eager to return next year,” Dennis shared. “We definitely were able to create an experience that our community is excited to build upon, and we look forward to returning to Rocky Point again next fall.”
To learn more about how you can support the Georgetown VFW Post 6444 and its upcoming events, visit the Post’s website or you may contact Commander Dennis directly at 843-546-0529. And be on the lookout for early registration for next fall’s Rocky Point Patriot race.
About The Andy Quattlebaum and Blackwell Family Foundation
The Andy Quattlebaum and Blackwell Family Foundation is committed to honoring the legacy of compassion, care, and positive energy that Andy Quattlebaum showed family, friends and the organizations to which he was so dearly dedicated. The Foundation is focused on supporting a variety of initiatives important to Andy – Education, Conservation, Community Enrichment, Veterans, Animals and Veterinary Schools.
