GRAYLING – Camp Grayling does a lot with their soldiers and service members, but sometimes it takes an outside organization to help take care of our local veterans.
Friday that help came without reservation from Local VFW Post Commander Leonard Nemeth. He and other members of Post #3736 in Grayling decided in short order to support combat veteran Major John Turnbull from Gaylord.
John won a trip to Maine to participate in a moose hunt with his father, but was having trouble with the expense of the trip to travel from Michigan to Maine in order to take part in the trip. The hunt was given to veterans that were 100% disabled, as is John.
Major (retired) Turnbull was badly wounded in a horrific attack on U.S. soldiers and contractors over two years ago in Syria. 16 people or more were killed that Jan. 16, 2019. John lost his eye sight, was badly wounded, and is still recovering from some of his injuries. However, his spirit is rock solid. John recently released a book he authored called, “Zero Percent Chance” and hopes people learn about his story and strong faith.
The moose hunting trip puts John and his father Mike Turnbull in Presque Isle, Maine. It is meant to provide therapeutic healing that cannot be measured on any type of index. It also puts father and son together for some important bonding time.
When asked if a small contribution could be made to help offset John’s expenses, Commander Nemeth said, “Let me see what we can do.” By that evening he was ready to provide a check for $100 from the VFW in Grayling.
Leonard is no stranger to deployments, and jumped at the chance to help another veteran. “It’s what the VFW is all about! … I think because many young people do not realize that the mission of the VFW is to expedite rehabilitation to our nation’s disabled veterans.”
John was very thankful to receive the gift from VFW #3736 and will use it for his trip as he departs this weekend.
Quoting the Harvard Medical School website: “Dozens of studies have shown that people who have social support from family, friends, and their community are happier, have fewer health problems, and live longer.”
Commander Nemeth and community members seem to already know this fact. It is a testament to the fine people and organizations willing to provide our veterans support.
Camp Grayling also would like to recognize the efforts of the VFW and wish John and his father a successful hunt while they spend time driving out to Maine and back. Thank you and stay safe out there. HOOAH!
For more info about Camp Grayling call 989-344-6100.
