Combat Vets Motorcycle Association Utica NY: Chapter 19-8 Guide
The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) serves Utica, NY, through Chapter 19-8, based in Syracuse. This is the Salt City Chapter, covering the Central New York region. CVMA is a 501(c)(19) veterans’ charity, not a motorcycle club. Full Members are combat veterans with verified service. Support Members are non-combat veterans. Auxiliary Members are spouses. Annual dues are $20 for Full/Support and $10 for Auxiliary.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Chapter Serving Utica | CVMA NY Chapter 19-8 (Salt City Chapter) |
| Chapter Base | Syracuse, NY (Cicero American Legion) |
| Type | 501(c)(19) veterans’ charity |
| Full Member Eligibility | Verified combat service (DD-214 required) |
| Support Member Eligibility | Non-combat veteran, sponsored by Full Member |
| Auxiliary Eligibility | Spouse/widow/widower of Full or Support Member |
| Annual Dues | $20 (Full/Support), $10 (Auxiliary) |
| Motorcycle Requirement | 500cc or greater (Full/Support only) |
| Chapter Meeting Location | Cicero American Legion, 5575 Legionnaire Dr., Cicero, NY |
| Local VA Support | Oneida County Veterans’ Service Agency, Utica |
| Veteran Outreach Center | 726 Washington St., Utica, NY 13502 |
| National Website | combatvet.us |
| Updated For | 2026 |
What Is the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association?
The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) is a nonprofit association of combat veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces who ride motorcycles as a hobby. As a registered 501(c)(19) veterans’ charity, CVMA’s mission is “Vets Helping Vets”—supporting and protecting those who have defended the country.
CVMA is not a motorcycle club (MC). It is an association. Members do not claim territory, do not have a clubhouse, and do not wear “cuts” or “colors.” Instead, members wear vests with a one-piece back patch.
The association was founded in 2001 after a group of 45 veterans discovered that the “Combat Vets Motorcycle Club” they had joined online was an internet scam. Those 45 veterans—the “Original 45″—formed a legitimate nonprofit organization that has since grown to include chapters in all 50 states and overseas.
CVMA Chapter 19-8: The Salt City Chapter
CVMA NY Chapter 19-8, known as the Salt City Chapter, is the chapter that serves Utica, Syracuse, and the broader Central New York region. The chapter is based in Syracuse and holds its monthly business meetings at the Cicero American Legion, located at 5575 Legionnaire Drive in Cicero, NY.
The Salt City Chapter is an association of combat veterans from all branches of the United States Armed Forces who ride motorcycles as a hobby. Membership is comprised of Full Members (those with verified combat service) and Support Members (those with non-combat military service who are dedicated to helping veterans).
Chapter 19-8 Contact and Meeting Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Chapter Name | Salt City Chapter |
| Chapter Number | NY 19-8 |
| Meeting Location | Cicero American Legion, 5575 Legionnaire Dr., Cicero, NY |
| Meeting Frequency | Monthly business meetings |
| Region | Central New York (includes Utica, Syracuse, Rome) |
| Primary Charity Focus | Central New York veterans and veteran organizations |
Veterans from Utica who are interested in joining CVMA should contact Chapter 19-8 leadership. The chapter participates in charity rides and events throughout Central New York, including the annual Smokey Spellman Tribute Ride.
How to Join CVMA Chapter 19-8 from Utica
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityJoining CVMA from Utica follows the same process as joining any CVMA chapter. You must contact the chapter, submit proof of military service, verify your motorcycle, and pay dues.
Step 1: Contact Chapter 19-8 Leadership
Reach out to the Salt City Chapter through the national CVMA website at combatvet.us or through the chapter’s Facebook page. Express your interest and ask about the application process.
Step 2: Determine Your Membership Tier
CVMA has three membership classifications. Your military service record determines which tier you qualify for.
| Membership Type | Who Qualifies | Combat Service Required | Motorcycle Required | Annual Dues |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Member | Combat veterans of a foreign war | Yes (verified DD-214) | Yes (500cc+) | $20 |
| Support Member | Veterans with non-combat service | No | Yes (500cc+) | $10 |
| Auxiliary Member | Spouses, widows, or widowers of Full/Support members | No | Not required | $10 |
Step 3: Complete the Application
Applications are available from chapter officers. You will need:
Full Members:Â Copy of DD-214 showing honorable service and combat deployment
Support Members:Â Copy of DD-214 showing honorable service (non-combat), plus sponsor verification
Auxiliary Members:Â Copy of marriage certificate and sponsor verification
Step 4: Verify Motorcycle Requirements
For Full and Support Members, a representative of the Chapter Commander will examine:
Your motorcycle (must be 500cc or greater)
Your motorcycle license with state endorsement
Proof of insurance
Step 5: Pay Dues
National annual dues are:
Full Members: $20
Support Members: $10
Auxiliary Members: $10
Dues for members deployed in a war zone are waived. Life membership is available for $200 (Full) or $100 (Auxiliary).
Step 6: National Board Review
Full Member applications are forwarded to the National Board of Directors for final approval. Support and Auxiliary applications are verified at the chapter level.
Step 7: Receive Your Patch
Once approved, you will sign a Member Patch Agreement. The CVMA back patch is a registered trademark and remains CVMA property at all times. Patches must be returned if membership is terminated.
CVMA Membership Requirements: Full Details
Understanding the specific requirements for each membership tier is essential before applying. Here is the complete breakdown.
Full Member Requirements
Full Members are veterans who have been forward deployed to a combat zone and can provide verified proof of combat service. The only acceptable proof for membership is a copy of the DD-214 or service record book, which is forwarded to the National Board of Directors for approval.
Full Members must:
Be of good character
Own and operate a motorcycle of 500cc or greater
Hold a valid motorcycle driver’s license with state endorsement and proof of insurance
Pay $20 annual national dues
Be approved by the National CVMA Board of Directors
Full Members wear the 12.5-inch one-piece back patch. This patch is a registered trademark and may only be worn by members in good standing.
Support Member Requirements
Support Members are veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who have non-combat military service and a strong dedication to helping veterans. They must be sponsored by a CVMA Full Member who has held membership for at least one year.
Support Members must:
Be of good character
Be a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces (non-combat service)
Be sponsored by a Full Member in good standing
Meet one of the following with their sponsor:
Ridden a minimum of 3,000 miles together
Attended three CVMA events together
Been known by their sponsor for a minimum of 6 months
Own and operate a motorcycle of 500cc or greater
Pay $10 annual national dues
Support Members wear a 10-inch back patch, supplied by their sponsor.
Auxiliary Member Requirements
Auxiliary Members are spouses, widows, or widowers of Full or Support Members in good standing. They must support the efforts of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and the CVMA.
Auxiliary Members must:
Be of good character
Be the current spouse, widow, or widower of a Full or Support Member
Submit a copy of the marriage certificate with their application
Pay $10 annual national dues
Riding a motorcycle is not a requirement for Auxiliary Members. Auxiliary Members do not have a vote in CVMA business.
CVMA Charity Work in Central New York
CVMA’s primary mission is “Vets Helping Vets.” Chapter 19-8 sponsors and participates in motorcycle-related charity events each year, donating to veteran care facilities, individual veterans, and other veteran organizations.
Smokey Spellman Tribute Ride
The Smokey Spellman Tribute Ride is an annual charity motorcycle ride hosted by CVMA Chapter 19-8. The ride honors the memory of James “Smokey” Spellman, a Vietnam veteran and devoted CVMA member who passed away in January 2021.
The event takes place at the Cicero American Legion, located at 5575 Legionnaire Drive in Cicero, NY. Registration begins at 10 a.m., with kickstands going up at 11:30 a.m. All donations made at the event go toward helping Central New York veterans. The event is open to the public and all are welcome to attend.
James E. Spellman served two tours in Vietnam as a Seabee in the United States Navy. He was a Past Commander of the Clark Mills American Legion Post #26 and a devoted member of CVMA Chapter 19-8. The tribute ride continues his legacy of service to fellow veterans.
Other Charity Work
CVMA Chapter 19-8 and other New York chapters support:
Albany VA Fisher House — Chapter 19-1’s primary charity
Central New York veterans — Through donations from rides and events
Local veteran organizations — Including VFW and American Legion posts
Individual veterans in need — Direct financial assistance
CVMA chapters are registered 501(c)(19) veterans’ charities. Donations are tax-deductible, and 100% of donations go to support local veterans and veteran service organizations.
CVMA National Meeting 2026 in Syracuse
The CVMA National Meeting 2026 is being hosted by Chapter 19-8 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse. This is the organization’s premier annual gathering, bringing together combat veterans from across the country.
Event Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | CVMA National Meeting 2026 |
| Location | New York State Fairgrounds, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse, NY 13209 |
| Dates | June 5–7, 2026 |
| Host Chapter | CVMA NY 19-8 (Salt City Chapter) |
| Contact | Scott “Coxyx” Cox at procvma198@gmail.com |
The multi-day event includes scenic rides through Upstate New York, official CVMA National Meeting sessions for Full, Support, and Auxiliary Members, and social gatherings. The event is a celebration of service, brotherhood, and the open road.
This is a sanctioned event for CVMA members only.
VA Resources for Utica-Area Veterans
Veterans living in Utica and Oneida County have access to several VA and veterans’ service organizations that can assist with benefits, healthcare, and other needs.
Oneida County Veterans’ Service Agency
The Oneida County Veterans’ Service Agency provides entitlement information and advocacy assistance to military personnel, veterans, and their families. The agency is located at 800 Park Avenue in Utica.
Services include:
Assistance with obtaining records, benefits, and entitlements from the VA
Help with funding, medical treatment, or nursing home care
Advocacy for veterans’ claims
Contact:Â 315-798-5830. Appointments are available at the Utica location on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Central New York Veteran’s Outreach Center (CNYVOC)
The Central New York Veteran’s Outreach Center is a dedicated nonprofit organization focused on assisting veterans and their families. The center is located at 726 Washington Street in Utica.
Services include:
Case management and care coordination
Housing assistance
Healthcare connections
Employment support
Food pantry
Thrift store
Transportation services between local VA clinics and hospitals
The center also hosts a mental health clinic in partnership with Upstate Cerebral Palsy, connecting qualified veterans to supportive housing assistance, primary care services, and other resources.
VA Healthcare in the Utica Area
Veterans in Utica receive VA healthcare through the Syracuse VA Medical Center system. The Mitchell VA Outpatient Clinic (Rome VA) serves veterans in the Utica-Rome area. The Syracuse VA Medical Center is the primary referral center for Central New York veterans.
Syracuse VA Medical Center
800 Irving Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13210
Veterans can enroll in VA healthcare online at VA.gov, by phone at 1-877-222-8387, or in person at any VA facility.
What Veterans Should Do Next
If you are a veteran in the Utica area interested in CVMA or VA benefits, here are concrete steps to take.
Contact CVMA Chapter 19-8Â to inquire about membership. Ask about upcoming meetings and events.
Verify your DD-214Â to determine whether you qualify for Full or Support Membership.
Check your motorcycle requirements if applying for Full or Support Membership. Ensure your bike is 500cc or greater and your license and insurance are current.
Attend a chapter meeting at the Cicero American Legion to meet members and learn more.
Enroll in VA healthcare if you have not already done so. Apply online at VA.gov or call 1-877-222-8387.
Contact the Oneida County Veterans’ Service Agency at 315-798-5830 for help with VA claims and benefits.
Visit the CNY Veteran’s Outreach Center at 726 Washington Street in Utica for housing, employment, and food assistance.
File VA Form 21-526EZÂ if you have service-connected conditions and have not yet applied for VA disability compensation.
Key Takeaways
CVMA Chapter 19-8Â (Salt City Chapter) serves Utica and Central New York. It is based in Syracuse and meets at the Cicero American Legion.
CVMA is a 501(c)(19) veterans’ charity, not a motorcycle club. Members are combat veterans, non-combat veterans, and spouses who ride motorcycles.
Full Members must have verified combat service (DD-214) and a motorcycle of 500cc or greater. Annual dues are $20.
Support Members are non-combat veterans sponsored by a Full Member. Annual dues are $10.
Auxiliary Members are spouses, widows, or widowers of members. They do not need to ride. Annual dues are $10.
The Smokey Spellman Tribute Ride is Chapter 19-8’s annual charity ride, honoring a Vietnam veteran and CVMA member. All donations help Central New York veterans.
CVMA National Meeting 2026 is hosted by Chapter 19-8 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, June 5–7, 2026.
Oneida County Veterans’ Service Agency (800 Park Ave., Utica) provides free help with VA claims and benefits. Call 315-798-5830.
CNY Veteran’s Outreach Center (726 Washington St., Utica) offers housing, employment, food, and transportation assistance to veterans.
VA healthcare for Utica-area veterans is provided through the Syracuse VA Medical Center system and the Mitchell VA Outpatient Clinic in Rome.
Common Questions
Is there a Combat Vets Motorcycle Association chapter in Utica, NY?
CVMA does not have a chapter physically based in Utica. The chapter serving Utica and Central New York is Chapter 19-8, the Salt City Chapter, based in Syracuse. The chapter meets at the Cicero American Legion and welcomes veterans from Utica, Rome, and surrounding communities.
How do I join CVMA Chapter 19-8?
Contact the chapter through the national CVMA website at combatvet.us or through the chapter’s Facebook page. Submit your DD-214, complete the application, verify your motorcycle (for Full/Support), and pay dues. Full Member applications require National Board approval.
What are the CVMA membership requirements?
Full Members must be combat veterans with verified DD-214, own a 500cc+ motorcycle, and pay $20 annual dues. Support Members must be non-combat veterans sponsored by a Full Member, own a 500cc+ motorcycle, and pay $10. Auxiliary Members are spouses of members and pay $10.
How much are CVMA dues?
National annual dues are $20 for Full Members and $10 for Support and Auxiliary Members. Dues are waived for members deployed in a war zone. Life membership costs $200 for Full Members and $100 for Auxiliary Members.
What is the Smokey Spellman Tribute Ride?
The Smokey Spellman Tribute Ride is an annual charity motorcycle ride hosted by CVMA Chapter 19-8. It honors James “Smokey” Spellman, a Vietnam veteran and CVMA member who passed away in 2021. The ride starts at the Cicero American Legion, and all donations go to Central New York veterans.
What charity work does CVMA Chapter 19-8 do?
Chapter 19-8 raises funds for Central New York veterans through charity rides and events. The chapter supports veteran care facilities, individual veterans in need, and other veteran organizations. Donations are tax-deductible through the 501(c)(19) status.
Where does CVMA Chapter 19-8 meet?
The Salt City Chapter holds its monthly business meetings at the Cicero American Legion, located at 5575 Legionnaire Drive in Cicero, NY. Meeting dates are posted on the chapter’s Facebook page and the national CVMA website.
Do I need to be a combat veteran to join CVMA?
No. While Full Membership requires verified combat service, Support Membership is available to veterans with non-combat service who are dedicated to helping veterans. Support Members must be sponsored by a Full Member.
Can women join CVMA?
Yes. Women can join as Full Members if they are combat veterans, as Support Members if they are non-combat veterans, or as Auxiliary Members if they are spouses of members. CVMA membership is open to all qualified veterans and spouses.
What VA resources are available in Utica, NY?
The Oneida County Veterans’ Service Agency (800 Park Ave., Utica) provides free help with VA claims and benefits. The CNY Veteran’s Outreach Center (726 Washington St., Utica) offers housing, employment, food, and transportation assistance. VA healthcare is provided through the Syracuse VA Medical Center system.
What is the CVMA National Meeting 2026?
The CVMA National Meeting 2026 is hosted by Chapter 19-8 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, June 5–7, 2026. It is the organization’s premier annual gathering for Full, Support, and Auxiliary Members. The event includes official meetings, scenic rides, and fellowship.
Is CVMA a motorcycle club or an association?
CVMA is an association, not a motorcycle club (MC). It does not claim territory, does not have a clubhouse, and does not wear cuts or colors. Members wear vests with a one-piece back patch. The organization is a 501(c)(19) veterans’ charity.
Official Resources
CVMA National Website — combatvet.us — Chapters, membership, and national information
CVMA Chapter 19-8 (Salt City Chapter) — Search “CVMA NY 19-8” on Facebook — Central New York chapter information
Oneida County Veterans’ Service Agency — 800 Park Ave., Utica, NY 13501 — 315-798-5830
CNY Veteran’s Outreach Center — 726 Washington St., Utica, NY 13502 — 315-765-0975
Syracuse VA Medical Center — 800 Irving Ave., Syracuse, NY 13210 — 315-425-4400
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — va.gov — Benefits, healthcare, and claims
VA Health Benefits — 1-877-222-8387 — Healthcare enrollment and eligibility
Veterans Crisis Line — 988 (press 1) — 24/7 crisis support
New York State Division of Veterans’ Services — veterans.ny.gov — State veterans’ programs
IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search — irs.gov — Verify 501(c)(19) status
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