Hard times can happen to anyone, and during difficult times, the love and support of those around you can make all the difference. This is especially true for those brave souls who selflessly serve their country.
Vietnam veteran Larry Robson knew the challenges of life’s ups and downs all too well. He struggled to make ends meet and didn’t know where to turn for help. That’s when fate intervened and he crossed paths with the Fox 5 Surprise Squad at a grocery store in Las Vegas.
Larry was in dire financial straits, but he still accompanied his friend Stephanie, a disabled veteran, to the store. Stephanie shared her concerns with a Fox 5 reporter, explaining that she was down to her last $50 and didn’t know how she would handle it any longer. As a touching gesture, the Surprise Team generously offered to pay for Stephanie’s groceries.
Dave Hall, the reporter in charge of the surprise desk, then noticed Larry standing quietly behind Stephanie. Larry, a friend of Stephanie’s husband, founded the Blanket Bones Club many years ago. The club’s mission was to donate blankets to homeless veterans who were struggling on the streets after their military service.
Larry’s motivation was very touching. He founded the club after three fellow veterans tragically froze to death. His goal was to ensure that no more veterans would suffer a similar fate.
Larry explained that Stephanie’s husband was a truck driver and was often away from home, so he kept her company and helped her cope with the problems she faced due to her disability.
Dave Hall was determined that Larry should not leave the store until the Surprise Squad team had secured his groceries as well. Larry was originally going to buy dish soap and candy, but Dave insisted, “You’ve served us. Now it’s our turn to serve you.”
Larry was overcome with emotion as he was allowed to choose whatever he wanted from the store. His total bill was $278, and tears filled his eyes when Dave and the team paid the bill.
“It’s just mind-boggling. I’ve been taking care of myself since I was 13,” Larry said.
The touching meeting between Larry and the Surprise Squad serves as a reminder that acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life. Larry’s dedication to helping fellow veterans and the team’s generosity are a testament to the power of compassion and support in our communities.
