By: Kevin Armstrong, Retail Sales Professional, Hillsboro Xfinity Store
My wife has been a sheriff for nearly 15 years. Through her work, she takes every opportunity to get involved with programs like Hometown Heroes, a volunteer-run organization that helps get men and women returning from deployment things they need for civilian life. When she told me about it, my eyes lit up—I had goose bumps. Some of these men and women coming back from overseas had little to nothing. Knowing first-hand what war looks like, I knew I needed to help. That was where Comcast came in.
As soon as I brought it to Comcast’s attention my coworkers were ecstatic to help. Expecting a few donated items, I was floored when I pulled up to the office. There were boxes upon boxes. From laundry baskets to headphones, reusable straws to shower caddies. As I loaded the donations into my car, I reflected on what I had witnessed growing up.
I was born in Saudi Arabia and lived there for over 14 years. I grew up in Dhahran, around the corner from the largest Air Force base in the middle east. Growing up I heard explosions and helicopters daily. The soldiers dropped patches and pins down to us from their military helicopters while we played baseball. They came over on weekends for dinner and to call their children using our phone. Amid the Gulf War, we were able to forget the chaos for a moment. We were able to sit down for a home cooked meal and laugh.
As I drove home with my car filled to the brim with donations, I shed some tears. I hoped to be able to provide the recipients the same relief I had felt in those moments eating dinner or playing baseball. Each Veterans Day I take the time to impart these lessons on to my children. I can’t count the amount of times that our services members have saved my family’s s life while I lived overseas. Nor can I measure my respect for their selfless sacrifices. I’m honored to help Hometown Heroes. And I’m proud Comcast stepped up to help me make a difference.