In the News

‘Vettes for Vets’ surprises Tyler veteran
KLTV
September 15, 2024
By Alex Weister

The Vettes for Vets Texas chapter wrapped up their first year by knocking on the door of a veteran to deliver a surprise.

Gathering at Smith County Precinct 5, the mayor of Lindale, Congressman Nathaniel Moran and Lindale police were among those in the convoy to surprise the veteran.

“You have all these family and friends coming together to help a person, a veteran, in need. Everyone is willing to give of their time, their talent, their treasure in order to give back to this gentleman that has given so much to us as a country and as a community,” said Gavin Rasco, the mayor of Lindale.

A new roof, brand new appliances and landscape remodeling were just a few things given to the veteran. Maryann Nilson, a friend of the veteran, nominated him and stated the issues he had piling up at his home that he could not afford to fix.

“My wife has been wanting to get the house painted and the gutters put up, but I said we just don’t have the money right now. We are on a fixed income, so all of it, the whole thing, just blew me out of the water. I can’t even remember all the things they are doing, so I appreciate it so much. I’m just blessed,” said Jim Rapp, the Vietnam veteran who recieved the surprise from Vettes for Vets.

Vettes for Vets Founder Jason Dores flew in Saturday morning to attend the event.

What once started with replacing a veteran’s roof in South Carolina has now expanded into nine states. It has not been an easy road for the group, but it’s days like today, honoring those who served, that make it worth it.

“It’s a lot of work coordinating stuff like this, but when you do the door knock and you see all the people here and the community excitement, it just hits reset. So, everything is just all good again. If there ever is that day you are tired or whatever, this changes everything. It makes it all worth it,” said Dores.

Texas Chapter President Benjamin Pate stated that he hopes to have all of the remodeling done before Thanksgiving. That is when they will give the family a Thanksgiving dinner and officially finish year one.

Read the story from KLTV here.