Recent Stories

Learn about the stories of our incredible veterans

"I am proud to have served my country."

Last Patrol volunteers honored the service of Dick, an Army National Guard veteran. The celebration took place on his 93rd Birthday. During our Honor Ceremony presentation, where Dick received a number of patriotic gifts, he was flanked by two of his grandchildren. Dick was born in Hampton, SC, in March 1933, as the youngest of six siblings. After losing his father at a very young age, he quickly understood the importance of hard work and the significance of family. After co

May 191 min read

"It was my honor to serve America."

Last Patrol volunteers honored the military service of Lieutenant Colonel Roy, a Vietnam Army veteran in hospice care. Roy was born in March 1937. He was a strong patriot from an early age. He joined the Army in May 1960 and dedicated over 21 years to military service. In 1965, he commanded Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry of the 173rd Airborne Brigade during the Vietnam War. His soldiers, inspired by Roy's leadership, soon gave him the nickname “Ranger Roy.” Retu

May 191 min read

"We veterans are still a team."

Last Patrol volunteers honored the service of Eugene, a Vietnam Air Force veteran, in hospice care. Eugene was born in April 1947 in Polk County, North Carolina. He served in the United States Air Force from April 18th, 1966, to February 17th, 1970, during the Vietnam War, where he worked as a mechanic specializing in construction equipment and auto repair. He received several commendations for his exemplary service. Following his military service, Eugene completed trade scho

May 191 min read

"From Kentucky to the United States Army."

Last Patrol volunteers honored Ray, an Army veteran in hospice care. Ray was born in 1930 in Kentucky. He enlisted in the Army in August 1951. He served in Company C of the 14th Engineer Combat Battalion. During his service, he earned several commendations and was honorably discharged in April 1953. Following his service, Ray pursued a path in both residential and industrial construction. He instilled his passion for construction in his family, as many of them also ventured i

May 191 min read

"Thank you for your service to our nation."

Last Patrol volunteers honored Harold "Hank" Nix, an Air Force and Army veteran in hospice care. Hank was born in 1938 in Greenville, SC, and grew up in a family of five. After graduating high school, he entered military service in December 1955, beginning a distinguished career that spanned more than two decades. Hank first enlisted in the Air Force, where he trained and served as an electrician. His initial assignment took him to South Korea, working in the Communications C

Feb 231 min read

"I would definitely serve again."

Last Patrol volunteers honored Richard, a Navy veteran in hospice care. Richard has fond memories of the brotherhood of service and remembers enjoying the military training, professionalism, and duty. Richard's family testified to his high regard for the Navy. Our team stepped up to befriend and honor Richard... and demonstrate that other American Patriots are with him as he proceeds on his Last Patrol. He was very appreciative, and as you can see, wanted to stand when we pl

Feb 231 min read

“Death and destruction was our tank unit’s motto!”

Last Patrol volunteers honored Kenneth Richardson, an Army Vietnam veteran in hospice care. Our team presented him with several patriotic gifts. It's a beautiful thing when lots of family can attend our Honor Ceremonies. Ken was born in 1950, in Cuba City, WI. He grew up on the family farm, where he learned the values of hard work, honesty, and dedication. He graduated from Potosi High School in 1968. He married his high-school sweetheart, Dianna a year later. In 1970, Ken wa

Feb 231 min read

A Member of the Greatest Generation

Last Patrol volunteers in Philadelphia honored WWII Veteran, Army Medic Jacob "Jake" Ruser, who is in hospice care. Our team presented with several patriotic gifts from our non-profit. Jake was born in December 1924 in Philadelphia and later moved to Conshohocken, PA. After high school, he was drafted into the Army on August 18, 1943, completing basic and medical training at Camp Grant, Illinois. Jake trained in advanced medical procedures at a CCC Camp in Pennsylvania. On Ma

Feb 232 min read

"We salute you!"

Last Patrol volunteers honored Frank Washington Jr., a Vietnam Army veteran in hospice care. Frank was born in August 1950, in Charleston, SC. He enlisted in the Army in 1970 and subsequently underwent training at Fort Jackson , SC. Upon completing training, he was deployed to Chu Lai, Central Vietnam, as part of the Americal Division. Frank served with the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, an armored cavalry unit attached to the Americal Division during the war. Serving as

Dec 9, 20251 min read

Honor

Last Patrol volunteers visited and honored 99 y/o Charles Ericson, a WWII Coast Guard veteran in hospice care. We presented him & his family several patriotic gifts. Charles served as Carpenter's Mate on the USS Dearborn, U.S. Coast Guard . He served from 1943-1945 with duty in the North Atlantic on submarine watch. Still proud of his service, he recalled: "I took care of all tasks below deck!" Following WWII, he went on to serve with NYPD , retiring after 20 years. He and hi

Dec 9, 20251 min read

"I'm a proud Marine!"

Last Patrol volunteers honored Fred G. Graham, a Marine veteran in hospice care. Fred was presented several patriotic gifts. Fred was born in 1933 in Conway, SC. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in June 1953 and completed Boot Camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Following boot camp, he was stationed at Camp Pendleton, California. He underwent Cold Weather Training in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Subsequently his home base was in Kylon, Formosa, and he

Dec 9, 20251 min read

"I loved being a Soldier!"

Last Patrol volunteers rallied to honor Don Whitley, an Army veteran in hospice care. Our honor ceremony celebrated Don and his family. We presented several gifts, including a Patriot's Quilt, a Congressional Letter from REP. William Timmons and one of our Cards of Gratitude packets. Don was born in January 1938 in Winston-Salem, NC. He served as an Army Engineer Officer from October 11, 1960, to July 31, 1981. He served 2 tours of duty in Vietnam. Throughout his service,

Dec 9, 20251 min read