Santa's Sleigh returns as Lynchburg group prepares holiday gifts for hospitalized veterans

The MOWW Virginia Piedmont Chapter hopes to raise more than $3,500 to provide Christmas gifts and necessities for veterans at the Salem VA Medical Center.

The Military Order of the World Wars (MOWW) Virginia Piedmont Chapter is preparing to continue a holiday tradition that has brought Christmas cheer to hospitalized military veterans for more than three decades.

The chapter's annual Santa's Sleigh project provides gifts and everyday necessities to veterans receiving care at the Salem VA Medical Center, reminding them that their service and sacrifices have not been forgotten during the holiday season.

For 2026, the chapter hopes to raise more than $3,500 in cash and donated items to support the effort.

Past Chapter Commander Peter Bryan is once again leading the initiative, which has become a longstanding tradition for the Lynchburg-area organization.

The project was led for more than three decades by the late Lee Cobb and Larry Fisher, two chapter members whose dedication to veterans continues to inspire the annual effort.

In December 2024, Lynchburg Agenda reported that chapter volunteers raised more than $3,000 and delivered clothing, toiletries, games, puzzles and other requested items to the Salem facility.

This year's shopping and delivery trip is planned for December, following the chapter's ROMEO Breakfast. Members and friends are invited to participate.

How to contribute

Donations may be mailed to:

Pat Richitt, Treasurer
MOWW Virginia Piedmont Chapter
700 Pearl Street
Lynchburg, VA 24504

Contributions may also be brought to the chapter's December meeting at Charley's Restaurant or its ROMEO Breakfast at Market on Main.

Through Santa's Sleigh, the chapter continues to honor its motto: "It is nobler to serve than to be served."