The request from Richard H.:

Dear Luke’s Wings,

My name is Richard H and I am currently hospitalized at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. I was in the army for 19 years. I was set to retire with my wife and kid when I was “stop lossed” and deployed one last time. Seven weeks into deployment the accident occurred. During a mission in Iraq, our vehicle drove over a pressure plate improvised explosive device (IED) which detonated as we drove over it – injuring several on the passenger side, including myself. I suffered paralysis on the left side of my face, as well as having my left leg amputated 3 inches above my knee. It will take me a year to recover. I go through physical therapy and occupational therapy for a prosthetic leg in the hopes of returning to duty before I retire with benefits.

I am writing to you today to request travel for my three children (Tommy, Emma, and Shelby) and their guardian. The last time I saw my kids was three months before I was deployed. And my wife hasn’t seen them since my injury because she’s been here at the hospital with me. We have been told that the Army lacks sufficient funds to enable their travel at this time.

It is my dream to retire one day to Washington State for my wife and family. My wife is the most wonderful woman in the world and it kills me that she has to be so stressed out. I wish my recovery could speed up. But with amputees it is a long process. For now, I would be overjoyed at the sight of my children. Please help me get our children here for my sake and for my wife. Thank you in advance for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Richard H

Luke’s Wings Response:

Dear Staff Sergeant Richard H,

We are pleased to inform you that we will be funding travel for your three children and their guardian to come see you here in DC. We cannot imagine how difficult it must be for you in your current recovery and rehabilitation phase; but please know that we wish you the very best. We hope that your family will bring you a sense of home, and renew your purpose in recovery.

Thank you for your service. You are a hero to all of us. God Bless, and may the beauty of Washington State find you before you know it.

Luke’s Wings