The second of four veterans to benefit from funds raised during a special concert organized this past summer was awarded a surprise Christmas gift last week.

The Songs4Soldiers organization, founded by Columbia resident and Iraq war veteran Dustin Row, held a very successful music concert Sept. 14 in the Market Place parking lot, raising funds to benefit local veterans in need.

During a Christmas party held by the not-for-profit organization Thursday night, a 2007 Chevy Cobalt was presented to Columbia resident Matt Rachels as a surprise.

For the full story, pick up the Dec. 18 edition of the Republic-Times newspaper, serving Monroe County and surrounding areas since 1890.