28 April, 2005
Rufus L. Forrest Jr.
VFW Foundation
406 West 34th Street
Suite 514
Kansas City, MO 64111
Dear Sir,
It is with the deepest, heart-felt appreciation that I address this letter to your organization! I am an Army Reservist who has been without pay for over 30 months. I have not been able to find ANYONE who has been able to help me in my predicament, that is, until your organization was located! My thanks go out directly to yourself, Mary Ann Thompson and [the employees of Vermont American], without whose help I would have continued to flounder aimlessly and without hope.
Your grant in the amount of $2499.78 helped me to clear my current living debt, and has bought me the breathing space I needed. It does not solve my current situation, but it does relieve the worries of a place to live and utilities for my children and I. The gift card for $300.00 was an unexpected add-on, and I can assure you that it will be put to use for its intended purpose. I don’t mind telling you that it brought tears of appreciation to the eyes of a 44 year old, 27 year Army Veteran. My children and I are eternally grateful!
Waiting on the Army to fulfill their obligations has cost me a marriage, 2 small businesses (intended to augment my retirement), and pride in service. Your gift can not replace the first two; but, it has given me something even greater- humility. Indeed, I am VERY PROUD to have served, if only for folks like yourselves who have expressed care and concern for me and my children.
Sir, when ever you see the “stars and stripes” on the top of a flag pole, know this- you have served as well as any soldier who ever put on a uniform for his country. Any medal or ribbon I wear for service performed, I wear proudly for you. Thank you from the depths of my heart. May God bless you openly.
Sincerely,
Roger Avants
Sgt/USAR
Cc: Sec. Of Defense Donald Rumsfeld
CC: Mary Ann Thompson
CC: Chris Connington