Weds Dec 16, I had the honor and privledge to volunteer with Rick "Crossfire Trail" Turgeon and another photographer and assisstant at the VA Hospital in Rocky Hill CT.

As we are both avid photographers and veterans, we arranged with the VA to photograph the annual Christmas Tree lighting. Being recently hospitalized after a MC accident I noticed in recovery patients had photos of family but few families had photos of the patient. The recovery center could not accept my offer to photo patients due to HPPA so I contacted the VA and Rick. I was told that this had never been done before but gave the okey-dokey.

Before we arrived at the VA we weren't sure what to expect. We ended up photographing close to 100 vets and staff and 25 homeless families invited to the affair. Vets there dated back to Normandy and several mentioned that they had not had a photo in years to send to their loved ones,

Cost to us, few gallons of gas and a ream of photo paper. In reality it was the best gift I have ever given and recieved. I salute Rick (Crossfire Trail), Rob and Jen(non-NEXer's) in making this possible and being part of what America is all about.

 

Very nice gesture indeed. It warms my heart just to read about it , I can only imagine the satisfaction it must have given you.

Truly a Christmas gift from the heart.

Here's wishing you a Blessed Christmas and a Great New Year.
Rick

 

Excellent job man. I'm sure it meant the world to them.

Merry Christmas, God bless you.

 

Outstanding kind gesture.

From one Vet to another Hurrah.

Jake80

 

Great story and a nice gesture especially around the holidays.
Merry Christmas guys !!!

 

What a clever idea! Thanks and Merry Christmas from another vet.

 

Great work gentlemen! Merry Christmas from one Vet to another!

 

Great job guys, Merry Christmas to both you and your families.

 

A wonderful Christmas gesture.

Merry Xmas to all.