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 A Tribute to Mr.T, USMC Retired - a forgotten hero
 
www.beforeyougo.us
( A VIDEO TRIBUTE TO OUR WORLD WAR II VETERANS to view perhaps before you begin to read this....)
This is the beginning of our adventures and friendship with a forgotten Marine veteran from World War II and the Korean War.
Perhaps it was just chance that we heard about this hero - or perhaps as most things in life- God brought him to our attention. Mr.T is just one of many and I am sure that if we take a closer look he represents many forgotten veterans in our communities across the USA. So if you want to join us in this tribute and mission of thanks to a retired Marine TSGT- Charles Francis Trapp- then please keep reading. He is just one- but that is how it begins- with just one.
When we met him for the first time on New Year's eve, it was because of my close friend and my child's godmother Wanda Borganelli. She was the physical therapist who had broken through this man's armour and taken baby steps with him to get him to allow us to meet him.
His eyes were deep and kind, as he met us in baggy overalls and with an unsteady gait. I smiled and reached out for his hand.His hand was trembling but he did not let go. I knew at that very moment, that this was just the beginning of saying thanks to a forgotten hero.It did not matter that we stood as he has no furniture except a wheelchair. It did not matter that the tiny shack was empty and our voices almost echoed in the room as we talked due to the emptiness of it all. He noticed my cane immediately and offered me his wheelchair, his tomatoes, his bed and a ham he said he had in the fridge.
He even offered us his USMC leather flight jacket. I knew then that this USMC veteran was depressed- and without much hope of being around long.
He spoke to me of his sadness and pain of missing his estranged children though he showed me a lovely Christmas card from his son. He told us how proud he was of his son and his family even if he never saw them.
Then the tears came as he spoke of Barbara Jean- his daughter- whose photo hung in a small frame on an almost empty wall. He had not seen her,he shared, since 1968.
We spoke about the wars and his planes he worked on and flew in including his favorite- the AD-4W Skyraider.
  
Our six year old son reached out too without hesitating and gave him a hug- telling him his Daddy was a veteran like Mr.T and flew airplanes.As he hugged our son Ed, tightly, the tears began to roll down his cheeks and his trembling hand reached out for mine again.
I went up closer and gave him a hug saying, " Thank you for letting us come and thank you today for your service to our country. It is an honor."
Below are the updates that I will post from visits to Mr.T and the emails I sent out from the beginning so you can feel like you've met him too...
We can do this together for when we forget these most valuable citizens of our great country- it affects our very own soul. And when we honor our veterans and troops, it nourishes the soul of these United States where there is no greater freedom found because of all who serve and have been willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice.
Freedom Endures.
| Subject: |
The day after his Christmas this disabled Marine vet sits alone needing help! |
| Date: |
12/26/2005 7:27:54 A.M. Central Standard Time |
|
From: |
HomefrontHugsUSA |
Please pass this on to all so we get a huge response even if only through prayer and cards...God bless the USA.
Needed: A Big Heart with about an hour of time- a volunteer who wishes to show our vets
they too are never forgotten...one by one...we will remember them.
Mission: Please help a disabled old Marine aviator vet feel acknowledged again as he sits alone in his home- feeling forgotten and depressed. Let us help him with some basic needs and just cards and letters to tell him he is not forgotten and remind him we are still a grateful nation. He has no idea he has gotten our attention  but this holiday we can all chip in and help him feel valued again for all his sacrifices.
Name of this Marine aviator veteran? Let's call him Mr.T to protect his privacy.
Home Location? Pensacola, Florida
Background:
Mr.T came to my attention when his physical therapist - one of my close friends- and Ed's godmother, told me about a gruff patient of hers who underneath that tough exterior was in a lot of pain from being forgotten by family and the loneliness of living in a home with almost no extras besides a bed and chair and some old VHS tapes, cans of Dr.Pepper.....and many memories of times gone by serving our country.
Mr.T lives alone and has no idea that he has touched our hearts this season.
He received a $20 check from his estranged son this Christmas without a card and a VCR from this physical therapist and her husband....but now it is up to us to help him too...if you would like to join us.
Where to send donations for Mr.T:
( I will personally guarantee they are delivered to him)
Mr T fund
c/o Kellermann- Homefront Hugs USA
1449 Tiger Lake Drive
Gulf Breeze, Florida 32563
Needs we have assessed after visiting his home: (updated 2-2-06)
here's a link for the socks:Click here: Unisex Cotton Stretch Sock | From BigFeetStore.com
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Any Marine memorabilia or decor
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Any fresh fruit and soft diabetic treats from Harry and David if you wish to send food- excellent quality and want them to do the work while you just place the order
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Thank you cards,prayers and letters to let him know we thank him for his service to our country- this is a wonderful project for kids too.
I am sending this because this vet touched my heart and I have faith we can make a difference even if it is just by passing on this need and allowing Americans the opportunity to help us here at Homefront Hugs to bring a smile back to this honorable Marine veteran.
Sincerely,
Alessandra Kellermann
Alessandra Kellermann
President
Homefront Hugs USA
2nd email:
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| Subject: |
An update on an old grouchy but wonderful Marine who was forgotten |
| Date: |
1/1/2006 5:02:28 P.M. Central Standard Time |
| From: |
 HomefrontHugsUSA
|
A little update for everyone on Mr.T...our grouchy but soft eighty year old Marine who had been forgotten....
I finally met this incredible veteran of two wars- WWII and the Korean War.
He is eighty years old. I hope you can take a moment and read about our meeting as he truly touched my heart and has left a permanent impression in my mind.
Mr.Trapp opened the door to his two room shack of an apartment in one of the poorer Pensacola neighborhoods by our naval base. He looked a bit confused but allowed us in to visit including my six year old- Ed who had his arms full of treats some of you have sent for him to eat .
I carried the box with sweatshirt and pants, alarm clock,pads of paper and munchies and some other items of love sent by some of our Homefront Hugs volunteers.
THANK YOU.
The first room was empty with a broken TV and one small working one and no furniture except his wheelchair. The second room had a hospital bed with mismatched old and frayed sheets and pillow cases and no warm blankets.
There was a small chest of drawer on which he had a photo of a congressman and his wife who must have sent him one for the holidays. In smaller frames he had photos of Marine Leaders he had worked for including General Hagee and told me they were his inspiration to this day.
The place? SPOTLESS. Just like a Marine.
There was one window in the front room but covered by some ugly stained curtains and the place felt hollow except for the warm tone of his voice and then the tears which came as he saw what we brought.
I spoke in low slow tones so he could hear me as his hearing is not so great. I explained we were here to thank him and wish him a Happy New Year. I thanked him for our service and began to read out loud some of his medals and tributes which were listed on a torn sheet of military issued documentation:
TSGT Chas F Trapp earned the following after graduating from Floral Park High School in New York in 1942:
among others....
TSGT ( now referred to as Gunnery Sgt by the Marines)Trapp spoke of the Battle of Midway....and riding in a C-47 and an AD (any guesses? as this was his favorite plane and I have sent notice to some of my USAF and Marine experts but if you know- tell me)
He spoke of the Korean War and how he was never so proud as the day he became a Marine.
And then he spoke of his estranged children and how he missed his beautiful daughter and son...the tears on this tough Marine began to fall slowly as I reached for his hand. Who knows why the setrangement happens- we all know sometimes that there are very vaid reasons and it is not for us to judge.
His hand trembled as I reached out but he did not pull away.
At the end of our visit I told Mr.Trapp that we had volunteers and grateful Americans who would love to keep in touch with his permission and he did not hesitate to share his address and phone number.
If you find the time to say thanks to a veteran- let Mr.Trapp be the one this time...for it is our turn now to help this hero and remind him he is NOT forgotten.
This tough Marine probably would have turned me away had I offered him help years ago but with his age and mobility issues and sadness in his soul- I believe he still has hope that life might still be worth living a few more years.
Reach out and say hello to this great Marine....you can tell him that "Sandy" sent you as that was easier for him than Alessandra or Ali...and that you know Homefront Hugs...
He may mention Wanda- my close friend and his physical therapist who was the first to break through his armor a month ago....
When he saw my Ed - Ed proudly told him that his Dad was a veteran too....and they exchanged a hug.
Mr.Trapp is a Green Bay Packers fan and the St.Louis Cardinals....he loves Dr.Pepper and could probably do well with some care packages like we send our deployed troops as he is alone and needing the comfort of Americans and those who have not forgotten his sacrifices.
The gift basket we brought him was from a Canadian family who too wanted to say thanks.
The thanks our veterans deserve has no border and we are one when we unite to remember them.
It is a national disgrace when there is a World War II veteran who sits alone forgotten . I cried as I left this man because I realized how lonely it must be to have no one who calls or writes and only memories of serving one's country and mattering then.
I know those of you reading this recognize this and want this to change as well. Who knows who may be in your own communities forgotten or alone?
Today we will make a small step with one veteran but this is how it begins.
If you wish to help, here are the current needs still for this World War II hero.
Needs:
(you can send them directly to me if you wish for them to be delivered from Homefront Hugs and you....to make sure they are not left at doorstep due to theft)
Our address is:
A.Kellermann
Homefront Hugs for Mr.T
1449 Tiger Lake Drive
Gulf Breeze, Florida 32563
***
Additional special cozy requests to make his place comfy and homey...and the list above is also valid:
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(soft fruit please- has trouble chewing)
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Walmart gift card for groceries
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Lounge pillow for bed....with arms on side
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about a 6 x 8 foot rug to make place cozier
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magazine subscription (address is above) for any aviation,sports or military magazine
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MUSIC CDS and VHS tapes of big bands, avaition and Bob Hope movies,and USO shows
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We are not affiliated with them in any way but they have super products !!
Anyway- let's start with this veteran this year and make a difference together. Thanks to all of you who have already begun to think about doing this...and include the children- as he has grandchildren he never gets to see with the family estranged...
Thanks again and God bless our troops...our families ....and our veterans like Mr.Trapp,USMC Retired.
In friendship and peace,
Alessandra
***
Thanks to Business Owners for joining in the support:
***
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Big thank you to Lowes of Gulf Breeze who donated a microwave for this wonderful man and a huge thanks to LAZY Boy Showcase Furniture Store of Pensacola for agreeing on New Year's Day to donate a recliner for this WWII veteran !
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Thanks to Bealls Dept Store in Gulf Breeze, Target ,Walgreens, Winn Dixie ,Sams, Publix ,Albertsons,Brunos for that favorite potato and macaroni salad he loves and Walmart for their willingness to help with needed items immediately as well !
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A special thanks to Walmart of Gulf Breeze who donated and put a TV stand together and donated twice in groceries to this hero veteran of ours!
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Thank you to the Pensacola News Journal who generously is giving Mr.T a free daily subscription for the rest of his life....Mr.T is still so sharp probably because he reads the paper avidly front to back~!
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Huge Thanks to the Saenger Theater and the Symphony for giving us tickets to the Big Band Show on February 11th in conjunction with Atlas Oyster House of Pensacola who is treating for dinner before the show !
*
3rd update:
*****
January 2nd, 2006 - Monday Visit with Mr.T and finally a slide show for all of you .....let us salute this hero theway he deserves, together. Help us and let other Americans know.
*********
Today we packed up some goodies,made a gift basket, packed dinner and groceries and some donated items like a new pillow and chair....and some fresh pillowcases...
We prepared a special photo of Mr.T's favorite plane and wrote a dedication to him, some new pictures for the wall for decor,some cups and plagtes...and drove to visit him for a few hours.
Ed brought his baseball cards and was so excited to surprise Mr.T with some new items and make his place a little bit cheerier.
I called and made an appt with Mr.T-
" Charles, can we visit you today- I miss you...", I said. He chuckled and said, "Why sure. You can bring Ed too. "
When we got there, he was waiting. Mr.Trapp opened the door and welcomed us with open arms...and the rest is here in the slideshow. NO words would do our visit justice except to say....he grows warmer in my heart each day.
When he saw the AD Skyraider which I found a jpeg of on the internet,,,he grinned and held it tightly to his chest...." I can fly again", he said, as the tears began to well up in this tough old Marine.
**
4th Update- Another visit with Mr.T- January 5, 2006
***
Went by his tiny apt again last evening to bring him a beautiful new set of stoneware for his kitchen so he no longer has to use the chicken trays for plates. Thank you to Elyse - a Marine's daugther and her flock of birds! Thanks to Darlene too who sent slippers and goodies and flashlight and a soft light grey zipup hoodie....which he seemed to just savor getting into as we helped him put it on.
" I saved you a rose from my garden, " he said, " Almost as beautiful as you...". (Now I realized why I adored this big teddy bear of a Marine.)
"I'm glad you brought my Eddie" , he said, " He's a looker like his mother."
Ed grinned and gave him a hug. We helped him with his laundry and checked out his bathroom- so tiny- one could barely turn around in it. He needs a bath chair and a shower head he can hold and maneuver, I will have to work on that as well as getting him some services and meals brought to the home.
" You remember I get burned up and then buried with my wife at the national cemetery at Barrancas," he added, " Don't forget. I got insurance- they pay all that."
"You're not going anywhere, Charlie, " I answered with a wink, " I am not going to all this trouble to have you leave me now. You take those vitamins I brought and get ready to be around here for at least another decade or two...".
He gave me a sheepish smile and winked at Ed.
" You get some sleep and rest now, " I said. " Ed has to go home and do his homework so he can come and visit you again another day."
" Good- make sure you bring that boy," Mr.T responded, " He's a good kid. His Dad and you must be proud of him . "
" We are," I answered , and put my arm around that six year old of mine who does sometimes surprise me with his comfort level and ease around Mr.T and his dreary apartment.
When children are at ease- just like dogs- they sense trust and goodness in others- and signal to adults that it is okay.
Mr. T had obviously stolen our hearts .
***
5th update - Sunday- January 8th, 2006-update.
****
Ed and I visited Mr.T who now has Ed call him "Grandpa Charlie" each day this week and decided to give him a rest this weekend. The weather got unusually cold and we hurried to get comfy blankets for him which were generously donated by several stores. I finished his laundry and brought him my filing cabinet to lock his cherished items and paperwork in. I also brought him packages from you and thank you wishes....we promise to do our best together on thank you notes but please note he cannot write well with his arthritic hands and he has a donated typewriter from his friend "Cindy" at the bank but we need to get it working.
Mr.T called me up to remind me to get hima birthday card for Ed (our son) which is January 14th and added, "Now don't go telling me I can't give him a dollar or two. Marines don't like being told what to do."
I grudgingly agreed but trust me I will make sure if he gives Ed anything- it is spent right back for Mr.T apart from maybe one dollar !
Once his basic needs are in place we will sit down together and write thank you notes but you are always welcome to call him- and he'll answer if you let it ring a while. Just email me for his number.
On Thursday evening I called Mr,T to tell him I would be by on Friday as my legs were giving me some trouble....and he said- "You just rest those legs- and come tomorrow".
He then called me up and sang some old Dorsey and Glenn Miller songs for me.
The last person who ever sang to me was Ed's Dad and that was a long long time ago...and this Marine has a voice I know must have charmed many ladies years ago. It brought me to tears.
Little does Mr.T know that my favorite music is big band and that wonderful period of Glenn Miller and Dorsey and the way love affairs seemed to last a lifetime...
We put him on speaker and Ed and I listened as he sang to us for at least 20 minutes.
I think the fact that this grumpy and crusty old Marine is singing again says enough.
Here's what he sang to me :
***
Artist: Billy Williams Lyrics
Song: I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter Lyrics
***
" I'm gonna sit right down and write myself a letter
And make believe it came from you
I'm gonna write words oh so sweet
They're gonna knock me off my feet
A lotta kisses on the bottom
I'll be glad I got 'em
I'm gonna smile and say
I hope you're feeling better
I'll close with love the way you do
I'm gonna sit right down and write myself a letter
And I'm gonna make believe it came from you
Oh yeah
I'm gonna write words oh so sweet
They're gonna knock me off my feet
A lotta kisses on the bottom
I'll be glad I got 'em
Oh yeah
I'm gonna sit right down and write myself a letter
And I'm make believe it came from you
Oh yeah
I'm gonna make believe it came from you
Oh yeah " **
Now maybe it makes sense how he stole my heart...and let me tell
you this Marine can sing! Ask him if you call...as he will be more
than happy to share his talent. What a gem of a Marine we found...
******************************************************************
(Just FYI: current needs are below ) TUESDAY- February 2nd 2006: NEEDS UPDATE for Mr.T:
1. Grocery Walmart Gift Card or one for Food Wolrd or Winn Dixie ...both are close to him .
2. If you prefer to send a care package- here are his dietary needs and easy for him to cook:
Coffee, Coffee Filters, Packaged Prunes, Light Chef Boyardee or similar type microwave dinners
(the small round plastic tubs), whole wheat crackers,dark chocolate, light fat free dark
chocolate or vanilla pudding cups, light fat free canned peaches and fruit cocktail ( light syrup),
Slim Jims, soft tissue with lotion,sports magazines, applesauce, no candy or
anything hard or too sweet. He needs to watch his weight but still can enjoy life!
Diet Sugar....Splenda...also welcome. He also loves any diabetic treats and the tuna in packages.
3. Diabetic Socks size XXL : He can use many pairs please as his feet are
so swollen)
Click here: Unisex Cotton Stretch Sock | From BigFeetStore.com
4. Special sturdy trays for food so it does not spill (click right here) or
get the latest ones from Walmart that are sectional....
5. Anything with a sense of humor- from the 40's (he is an avid reader and needs decor for the tiny shack he lives in) 6. Any Marine Memorabilia or Clothing (2x as he loves things loose especially for spring and summer ) **************************************************** Please email us for his address as we protect his privacy or better yet send the items to me for safe delivery...
Mr.T care package
c/o Alessandra Kellermann
Homefront Hugs USA
1449 Tiger Lake Drive
Gulf Breeze, Florida 32563
**
***God bless everyone who has worked with me to keep this sweet old tough
Marine smiling again ! His place already looks a bit more hopeful and wonderful...
I send all of you a hugs hug for caring...! IMr.T has allowed me to advocate for him and
with my expertise in social work and psychology, I will be doing just that with your support. I used to be a therapist right here in Pensacola so I will be using my experience and knowledge of resources
here to help our dear Marine.
He loves the Big Band, Billy Williams And Jimmy Dorsey music from WWII and
even the old songs from WWI....!
Alessandra Kellermann
President of Homefront Hugs
****
**********************************************************
Many many thanks for the care packages and clothes which
have been coming and shoes- he is overwhelmed and due
to his eyesight (can only read dark big print) - I read him
your cards and letters and emails you send for him to
read...God bless you all. And thanks for the walker- we raised enough funds this weekend thanks to a fast response!
.
Meals on Wheels Program is now finally in place !!
Our veterans deserve better and we can begin with Mr.Trapp. Our
six year old son reminded me of that by saying " What if that happened
to Dad?" ( a USAF veteran of 20 years)
He has hope now because he knows people care - because
God bless Mr.Trapp and God bless all our veterans.
Sincerely in gratitude and faith and a great need for sleep:),
Alessandra Kellermann
President
Homefront Hugs USA
Update January 19, 2006-12th Visit
I came with boxes and packages today from so many wonderful Americans-
reading notes and cards and helping him put things in order as this is
overwhelming in a wonderful way for this Marine. Sadly I spoke with a family
member last night who made it clear- they will not be involved and to just
let them know if he passed. One cannot judge- and we do not know- but
there is obvious pain there and thus we move on. If there is to be love and
forgiveness here- it is in God's hands.
I will not share this with Charlie as I do not want to see him cry. We all have made
mistakes in our lives and as a therapist- there is always room for atonement for all of us.
We put the CD's on after I showed him how to use the CD player..having
waited for a week until he asked me to show him. We take baby steps.
The place smells and looks better since I cleaned a bit and did laundry.
His demeanor is more positive and Charlie tells me of how the music Nancy and
Pam sent brings back so many wonderful memories. Tears well up in his eyes as he speaks of
a time gone by and he softly sings to some of the Jimmy Dorsey songs...
We unpack wonderful towels and blankets...we sure have a lot of thank you notes to write soon.
Packages packed with such love from all over the USA. I could hug you all !
He asks me to help him put on his new USMC hooded sweatshirt and strokes the new shoes he got.
Once his wound heals and the swelling goes down, he can wear the shoes and new slippers.
We still are waiting for him to get off the waitlist and receive services. Nothing has happened yet.
I take him to the doctor Monday and hopefully there will be good news. He is eating better
thanks to all of you . I slice the strawberries up for him because it is too hard for him.
We throw away the old soiled socks and washcloths that are beyond belief in dirt and wear.
It feels so good to replace them with new ones and I see a faint smile as we do.
I can tell it feels right to him too to live in a more hygienic and suitable place
as a Marine. It is hard not to cry as I lean down to put on his new wonderfully big socks and
see how much more comfortably they fit. It is time to go. My son is coming home in an hour.
As I hug him and start to leave, he says,
" You think you can show me how to work that microthing you got me so I can heat up my food, doll? Not now- next time you come?"
I smile to myself- wondering what took so long for him to ask but realize maybe this tough Marine
does not like cold food after all...
Baby steps...I tell him yes as I try to get rid of the lump in my throat. That Big Band music always
does that to me or maybe it is my soft spot for Marines especially our veterans.
I promise to keep you updated...and I promise to myself to not let go of this proud Marine who is
making room for us to thank him finally and honor his service.
***
Faithfully yours,
Alessandra
***
( I took some pictures so the new slideshow is below...under the Thank You list)
January 19th - morning call from Charlie
Charles called me today and asked that I put a message to
his son on "that paper of yours on the computer about me"
....(meaning this webpage). He told me if his son Charlie
ever saw this he wanted him to get this message and in
respect to him I will post this even if we never hear
" I'm proud of him for doing the job he is doing at
Boeing Aircraft Corporation. I think I got him started
when I got him that General Dynamics plastic helmet
and he seen that hat- he fell in love with aviation. I am
proud of him for being such a good husband and I love
him. I hope my son sees this and sees it is from his
79 year old Humbug. "
***
* No matter what we do- I realize there will never be peace in his heart
until he makes peace with his son. But if this never happens here on
Earth....we can still be there for him so he is not alone until his time
January 19th- Morning Call with Military Chaplain Father Garvey
Had a wonderful conversation with Father Garvey who said God must
be talking to both of us as he would make Mr.Trapp his priority
and go to see him as soon as he could. He agreed spiritual
supports are needed too right now for our friend Charlie.
I called Charlie to let him know Father Garvey would be visiting
Father Garvey is first going to be helping
with the services of our lost aviators this week from NAS Pensacola
whose plane crashed in Georgia leaving much sorrow.
We ask for your prayers for the four military families during this very difficult
January 26th- Thursday Update:
Meals on Wheels is finally on board with one meal a day being brought to the home
Father Gravey came to visit our dear hero and made him feel better and acknowledged
Cable TV is now going to be set up as of tomorrow thanks to your donations and help him
not feel so alone....and allow him to watch the SUPER BOWL !
Nursing care is in there now per doctors orders daily due to serious wound infection...and
specialists are on board now which means more appts to drive him to!
VA Social Worker has set up several appts for Mr,Trapp at the VA so they are back on board again as well !
Prescription coverage due to the new law Medicare Part D is now almost zero copay for
our hero which helps a great deal as he has so many medications he needs.
He has plenty of towels and sheets now,toiletries, and shoes and slippers which will fit him as soon as his swelling is better in his feet.
Senator Nelson's office has been working behind the scenes to help acquire necessary services for him.
The Navy Commander Frano on the base at NAS- Pensacola has been contacted to hopefully recruit dome wiling troops to spend some time with Mr.Trapp each month and take him to his favorite place- the aviation museum and Barrancas cemetery where his wife is buried.
I purchased a replacement American Flag as well thanks to your donations which I will bring him today since his other one was stolen while in hospital.
Please note friends- he is on a restricted low calorie diabetic diet and no salt or low low salt permitted.
Please choose wisely when sending foods and check this for him.
You have all been simply marvelous and once again- we thank you !
Here are some photos of our World War II veteran and friend this week...
Thursday February 2nd UPDATE:
WOW....so happy to be announcing that his infection and swelling are
improving in his feet and that he adores the new walker...that all of you
have given him within 3 days of sending an email out ! The power of the
internet and our faith in God has truly led us to helping this dear grouchy
Marine...not one step could have been taken without all of you.
Charlie called on his new phone today as he sat outside in his new chair
by his newly hung American flag and thanked me and all of you again
for being his "guardian angels."
Today we have appointments at the VA all day and then Charlie gets a
break (so I do too) until next week. Shopping and laundry are done for
the week and we have appealed to the base and churches nearby to join
us in helping him manage his daily living skills during the month.
Until then it's me and a few friends who introduced me to him like Wanda
Borganelli. Wanda is in the photos below and is also godmother to our
son Ed- she laughed as she saw what a challenge this has been for us
but said she is simply amazed at the good and kindness that has come
from all of you across the USA and Canada .
Charlie may end up losing part of his toe due to his infection
but thank goodness we are in the picture now to make sure he
is not forgotten again and without apprpriate supports. Still praying
that we hear from his son whom he misses and speaks of daily.
The Saenger Theater and Atlas Oyster House are treating him on
February 11th to a dinner and Glenn Miller concert and I will be
his date along with our son Ed. Charlie has Ed call him "Gramps"
and tests him on his state captiols and baseball knowledge when
Ed visits with me.
Basic needs now are truly just emotional support and calls and cards-
and anything with Marine logos on it. A wonderful volunteer sent him
a huge Marine Magnet for the fridge and a Marine memorabilia frame
which we promptly hung up.
His pride in being a Marine is always present and he even was impressed
to see the letter of encouragement from President Bush.
Something tells me though that is he ever heard from the Joint Chiefs
( also USMC) - he would be truly thrilled.
Charlie is smiling more and crying less. There even is a twinkle in his eye
but we are still monitoring his underlying depression . His neighbor and
friend passed away suddenly this week and Charlie is more in touch with
the brevity of life and his time here on Earth,
His cable TV where he is able to watch AMC and Turner Movies and his
ESPN golf and football help to take his mind off the death of his neighbor.
Next goal? Allow Charlie more independence as he qualifies for Community
Transportation and learns to manage a strict diet and strict fluid restrictions
due to his congestive heart failure. Hard to tell a Marine to live so strictly in
his last years but I think Charlie is realizing he is stuck with me and Ed as friends
and we are not going to abandon him.
He calls me "Red" and still sings his Big Band songs to me when he knows he
needs to make me smile after chewing me out ....but he reminds me he still
loves me he just is a grouchy Marine and its just "Marine talk."
I am a pretty tough cookie but he knows sometimes when the day gets long-
the chores seem neverending and the medical appts keep coming- a little
gentleness from this tough Marine goes a long way for me. Even our 7 year
old Ed reminded me the other day that he does not mean to sound grouchy-
" he is just an old grouchy Marine Mom- and he does not know how to change
his voice sometimes."
Semper Fi. Sometimes children do know best.
*
February 18, 2006 Update****
Today is my birthday. And sometimes on birthdays- the moments
of silence mean the most so I will not write much and instead share
your hard work and kindness and thanks to all in this updated
slideshow below. Mr.Trapp is doing so well and he feels loved and
appreciated - even getting ready to do some interviews with me to
share his story and the story of all of you.
Charlie called me on my birthday today. He sang Happy Birthday
and that was all I needed besides the hug from my son who told me
I did not look older than yesterday so maybe 40 was not so bad.
Charlie's son has not called though I have left him a message at
Boeing. Maybe in time....until then Charlie has support and letters
from all of you including our Joint Chiefs - General Pace and President Bush,
Senator Nelson. Case management may not happen for 3-12 months
I have been told but I am fervently working on making sure this is not the wait.
For a 79 year old veteran to be left without a case manager- or supports
(taxes we pay for) and only help from the Va in bits and pieces....this is not
acceptable. And I am sure you know there are many Charlies out there waiting
too.
For now, I pray and thank God each day for all of you and our wonderful
organization and others who have joined in- in our community.
This has been my birthday gift- all of you and meeting Charlie. I'll admit a
younger Marine might have been even more interesting as I am a single
Mom...but Charlie won my heart and calls Ed his adopted grandson. Our
son loves Charlie. He shows a gentleness and unconditonal acceptance
and respect one only finds in the innocence of children. If we could only follow
their lead....
My child had spring break and my grandmother passed, so I have
not heard from Charlie since we did our huge grocery shopping
and went to the bank.
Charlie has supports in place and is trying to deal with the silence
of his son. I know this will bring him down if he ever regresses
as the pain is unbearable sometimes for him but there is not much
one can do to force communication with an estranged son.
Charlie's friend Wanda called me to tell me she will check on him for me
while I am ill and dealing with the death of my dear grandmother.
He truly needs some more friends and contacts but I have yet to receive
a response from the NAS- the commander at Pensacola Naval Air Station
or some of the churches in the area. It must be hard for many elderly
living alone let alone a Marine vet.
Thanks to Allen and Pam Tajak for sending swim shorts and the wallet
he so desired, to Mrs.Hughes for her father's Marine books and cards,to
Ms.Gilbert for again like so many of you who are helping with groceries.
He should be fine for a while as he manages his money better and we have worked out a budget !**
If you write him - please know he loves funny cards, postcards with scenic views and US landmarks as he used to be a trucker, and in care packages:
large print magazines,Marine news, trucking,any microwaveable heart healthy,low salt foods, tuna in pouches,coffee,diet sugar,XXL polos with
just1-3 buttons at most,canned light fruit like peaches in light syrup or applesauce,clam chowder oup,dried prunes, and can always use another
set of twin sheets and standard pillowcases.
Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld sent a personal thanks as did General Pace- our Joint Chiefs of Staff who sent a personal message of thanks and support for all our work with Mr.T- our World War II Hero....bravo friends and thanks from the bottom of my heart ! General Pace is a good man- and a wonderful replacement for our father of the year and the former Joint Chiefs General Meyers whom we miss !
*******
Received a call from the sherriffs office this morning that Charlie had passed and was found at his home. We called family in California and hope his son will come and take care of the final arrangments as we wait for the funeral announcement and burial notice so we can attend to honor this gentle stubborn friend of ours who blessed our life for only a little while.For all of you have embraced this man and honored his service to our country- thank you. It is with a heavy heart that I write this now and probably too many tears than Charlie would have liked. I will miss him a great deal especially as his ham and Easter basket sit here waiting to be brought to him as a suprise from us this weekend. I suppose Charlie was tired and ready to let go despite all out support...he missed his son so much. He was a good man and never understood how so many people could care so much for this forgotten hero.
Please remember that life is here to savor and to make peace with the ones you love even if it is just a call or a short note to say you are thinking of them .Our Charlie died with a sad sad heart missing his son whom he wanted to hear from even one last time.... but realizing in the end that complete strangers thought he mattered and valued his friendship and sacrifice. God bless you Charlie...perhaps Bob Hope above has a place for you in his USO shows up there in heaven where the love and humor continue with all our troops and veterans who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Footnote: On Memorial Day, my son and I laid flowers on the grave of Charlie's in Barrancas Memorial Cemetery where we finally found out
he had been quietly buried. We said a special prayer and knew that Charlie somehow could hear us and the prayers of all the wonderful Homefront Hugs
volunteers who had reached out to this lonely war hero. Our mission continues and each time we will remember this dear man who gave us the passion to continue to care...and thank our veterans.
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SPECIAL THANKS to wonderful Americans and Canadians who responded with love  Wanda and Mark Borganelli,MD of Pensacola- registered volunteers with Homefront Hugs USA since its onset and the family who opened the doors to SSGT Trapp and broke through the armour the first time... when he came to Wanda for physical therapy. Wanda is his angel. Thanks to Michael A. Blum, Executive Director of the Marine Corps League who sent a wonderful box of Marine memorabilia and caps and decor for this wonderful Marine and for calling him and talking with this fellow Marine- fellow brother in arms - there is no greater bond ! *** THANKS AND MORE THANKS TO MARTI SIBERNAGEL from Florida who sent a lovely care package and bath seat and slippers and towels and washcloths! WOW. *** Elyse and feathered flock of New Jersey who is herself a proud daughter of a USMC veteran and sent a set of cutlery,cups, and plates and other treats ! "On the cards I put in sneaky little notes, one says "on behalf of the daughter of a crusty old Marine" The other says "Have a party! Enjoy!" and the other just has a smiley on it. Love it, makes me so happy that I can do this!"*** Mary Ellen Esquino,her beautiful family and friends like Natalie.... of Pittsburgh for the super help and electric can opener and the diabetic socks and a trash can and a huge wonderful shirt and coffee ! What would we do without you??** Nikki Messer of Knox,Indiana for starting a prayer chain and sending a loving care package !** Colleen- our Texas angel- who made him smile yesterday with a Walmart gift card and other treats - with a super letter fromthe heart. God bless you !** Dr.Dan and Joy Leviten who donated a few wonderful grocery gift cards this week for us to meet his needs...God bless you both. Shalom.**The Allen family of Canada for a beautiful Harry and David food gift basket when he had hardly any food on our first visit !** Susanne DeSanctis for immediately purchasing slippers and orthopaedic shoes for our hero once she received the request to all ! God bless you, Susanne !
Sharon Tuapsi from Utah who sent a heartfelt care
package to our hero this week ! One of Mr.T's favorite
places he visited was Salt Lake City...thanks
so much Sharon !
******* Buddy and Kimberly Etheredge and Alex and Ashley from Gulf Breeze Florida who graciously gave a Marine photo album and sweatshirt,toiletries, and cards from the kids at a moment's notice despite their own challenges from the hurricanes! " The children and I will write him a note and express our gratitude to him for what he has done for our country. God bless him and God bless you." ****
Darlene Flynt who sent such a wonderful first care package with towels,alarm clock, goodies and sweatshirt and pants....etc... and warm wishes from her students ! ***Janice and family from Ft.Wayne Indiana " My Dad was a Marine. My Dad would be 73 now so TSGT Trapp will be my way of honoring my own dad as well.Thank you SO MUCH for sharing the visit that you and Ed had with TSGT Trapp"
**
Thanks to Kanzi Hebb for spoiling Mr. T several times and thinking of
the little things to help him smile !
Kristi and family from Hugs4Smiles USA who sent a wonderful flowering plant to brighten up the place. " Thank you for sharing that with us. I would be honored to write to him. I will try and do a care package for him to from time to time. I know Michael would love to draw him some pictures as well."
**** Trudy Gallahan and family who pledged continuous support " The tears just won't stop as I read and re-read your email about "our" Mr. Trapp. I will start a box and letter and have it sent shortly. No hero should be forgotten and I really do wonder how many are in my own community that no one knows about. " Trudy has continued to support this Marine through funds and clothing and stamps and cards- reminding him there are no conditions when it comes to honoring our veterans, Loisanne Diehl - our 9-11 wife who always helps us on special projects " I am trying to cut back on some of my projects, but this is one I definitely want to participate in."**** Terri Gilbert who immediately ordered a surprise when she read the 1st email...a longtime volunteer with us. Thanks so much for the coffee maker too! Thanks also for helping with thewalker funds and always being there for last minute requests!" I will keep Mr. T in my prayers."****** Pam and Allen Tajak- another long time volunteer couple with Homefront Hugs and always helping at a moment's notice- and who ordered him a pair of shoes badly needed, cozy clothes and blankets,etc..and favorite music of Glenn Miller and Dorsey...to bring smile! They also helped with the walker this weekend and getting a chair for outside forhim to sit in comfortably when he longs for company and fresh air. " This is such a sad story. I wish I was there and could do more for him.My heart is sad to think that this man has been alone for so long. I can't understand."Allen Tajak is a veteran himself- and understands the sacrifice.** Nancy Grote of Indiana who compiled many favorite tunes and some radio shows from Mr.T's childhood and as a young Marine in World War II...thanks a million, Nancy ! He was in tears the day he got them
and began reminscing immediately....retelling tales of WWII !
***
******
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2001 Trademark and Copyright- Homefront Hugs USA *********
Easter/ Passover resolution:
Will you share this story with others and join us in saluting
forgotten heroes in your community in memory of our dear
They are there if we just open our eyes.
Share your stories with us and we will post them here.
And volunteer with us today- you are so needed. Just email
us with the word volunteer and we will respond asap.
Sincerely in hope and faith,
Alessandra and ...Ed Kellermann (Charlie's little buddy who misses him dearly)
Founders
Homefront Hugs USA
info@HomefrontHugs.com
To contact us: info@HomefrontHugs.com
2001 Trademark and Copyright- Homefront Hugs USA
Homefront Hugs USA and its programs does not endorse any political party or candidate. We are here strictly to provide support and comfort to our service members,veterans and their families, regardless of political or religious affiliation. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, or politics in accordance with our United States constitution and in honor of our troops and veterans worldwide who come from all walks of life to serve our country with honor, great personal sacrifice and courage.
In Memorium
Charles Trapp, USMC Retired
WW II and Korean War Veteran
(1927- 2006)
Beloved Friend and No Longer Forgotten Hero |
