When it comes to real life heroes, there are few so worthy of the title as our veterans.
Having risked their lives to serve their country, they deserve all the love, praise and happiness that can be had in the world. Sadly, of course, the reality is generally quite different.
Far too often are veterans forgotten about, left to tackle PTSD alone or else ignored by a society they fought to protect.
A heartbreaking story has reached our ears concerning a disabled veteran who was so lonely he posted an advert asking if there was a stranger who would like to go to dinner with him.
As per Metro, former US Navy communicator Lyndon Dale Flowers, who is divorced, wrote a note reading: “Would someone like to take a local disabled veteran to dinner on Veterans Day?
“No car. My treat.”
63-year-old Lyndon left the note, along with his phone number, in the window of a barbershop in Lewiston, Maine on November 5. It was his wish that someone respond to his offer in time to share dinner on the November 11 commemoration.
Fortunately, one of the barbers, Heather Jeselskis Swift, was so touched by the words that she shared a photo of the note on social media.
From there, the internet did what it does best and Lyndon was inundated with offers.
“I’ve been getting calls from all across the country,” he said. “Even people just wishing me well.”
The veteran received calls from as far away as Florida and California, and eventually had his request for a meal with company taken up by a kind family.
Lyndon’s struggles
As per Metro, Lyndon was divorced from his ex-wife eight years ago. He has two grown-up children, but these days he’s lonely.
“My daughter moved about 30 miles away and has a child,” he explained. “I see her every so often. My son lives closer, but he is very busy and works a lot.”
Sandy Washer was the woman who saw his note on Facebook and knew something had to be done about it. She and her family made a lunch date with Lyndon, driving to meet him from their home in nearby Norway.
Speaking to WMTV, she said: “Well, veterans have a soft spot in my heart.
“My dad was in the Army for 20 years.”
Lyndon said it’s his hope that his touching note reminds people to think of local veterans who may be in need of a helping hand.
Indeed, not enough is done to help our veterans. Always remember that even a small gesture can go a long way.
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