Cheerwine on tap at Walter Reed

For the second year in a row, Salisbury-based Carolina Beverage Corp. is donating ample quantities of Cheerwine to the annual pre-Super Bowl party at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

The 82nd Airborne Division Wounded Warrior Committee, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the injured soldiers of the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, is host for the party.

"We at Cheerwine were thrilled that the Wounded Warrior Committee invited us back to be part of this amazing event again, allowing us to show our support for the military and thank the brave soldiers who will be in attendance," said Tom Barbitta, vice president of marketing for Cheerwine.

Wesley Bauguess, president of the Wounded Warrior Committee, is planning this year's Super Bowl Party at Walter Reed. Bauguess accepted the position as president in honor of her late husband, Maj. Larry Bauguess Jr., who died in combat during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2007.

His enthusiasm for the 82nd Airborne Division inspires her dedication to supporting Fort Bragg's injured soldiers.

"We're grateful that a local company like Cheerwine is willing to show support to not only Fort Bragg's injured soldiers, but all the men and women at Walter Reed," Baugess said. "On the surface, Cheerwine is providing drinks, but — deeper than that — the company is saying to the soldiers we support and thank you."

The party will be held for wounded service members from all branches on Feb. 6. Festivities will include food, Cheerwine and entertainment.

To make a donation to the Wounded Warriors Committee, e-mail woundedwarriorcommittee82@yahoo.com for information.