We all go through tough times in life, and when we do, the love and support of those around us can make all the difference. This is especially true for our brave veterans, who selflessly serve their country without expecting any rewards in return. Unfortunately, many veterans struggle to make ends meet when they return to civilian life. The benefits they receive are often not enough to live on, leaving them uncertain about where to turn for help.
Larry Robeson, a Vietnam veteran, knows this struggle all too well. He was down on his luck and unsure how to make ends meet. But fate had a surprise in store for him at a grocery store in Las Vegas. Larry had taken his friend Stephanie, a disabled fellow veteran, to the store. Stephanie was buying food for herself and her dogs but was worried about what she would do once her last $50 ran out.
Little did Larry know, the Fox 5 Surprise Squad was about to cross his path. This amazing group pays for people’s groceries to help those in need. As the reporter, Dave Hall, approached Stephanie to offer help, he noticed Larry standing quietly behind her.
It turns out that Larry had set up the Bones for Blankets club years ago. The club’s mission is to donate blankets to homeless veterans who have been left on the streets after their service. Larry was motivated by the tragic deaths of three fellow veterans who froze to death. He wanted to ensure that no more veterans would suffer the same fate.
Larry explained to the Surprise Squad how he became friends with Stephanie and helped her through the challenges she faced due to her disability. He believed that no veteran should go through what she was going through.
Dave Hall, touched by Larry’s selflessness and dedication, insisted that Larry wouldn’t leave the store without the Surprise Squad paying for his groceries as well. Larry had only planned to buy dish soap and candy, but Dave told him, “You served us. It’s our turn to serve you now.”
Overwhelmed with emotion, Larry wandered through the store, picking out whatever he wanted. The total came to $278, and tears rolled down Larry’s cheeks as Dave and the others settled the bill.
“This is just overwhelming. I’ve been taking care of myself since I was 13,” Larry said.
