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Introduction:
Meet “Ace,” a cover nickname we’re using to protect the privacy of a U.S. Marine Corps veteran whose service to our nation is beyond question. In the line of duty, Ace sustained severe injuries, including a torn rotator cuff requiring surgery and exposure to toxic substances that have left lasting scars. Yet, the battle he faces now is one no hero should endure alone.
The Injustice:
Ace’s valor is documented in his service records—his sacrifices are undeniable. But due to the stigma surrounding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a deep-seated reluctance to relive buried experiences, he hesitated to file for disability benefits. When he finally did in August 2022, he was deemed 75% disabled and awarded $1,712 per month. However, he was unaware that by delaying his claim, he forfeited a significant sum in back pay.
The Clarification:
It’s important to note that this campaign is not an attempt to obtain funds to which Ace was deemed unentitled. The Department of Veterans Affairs has set his disability at $1,712 per month, recognizing him as 75% disabled. This campaign’s sole purpose is to help return to Ace the compensation he would have been due at the rate indicated by his service record.
The Calculation:
From his service end in June 1996 to filing in August 2022, Ace missed out on 314 months of disability payments. At the awarded rate, this amounts to:
314 months×$1,712/month=$537,568
This staggering sum represents more than just money—it’s the life Ace could have built, the medical care he desperately needs, and the stability every veteran deserves.
The Struggle:
For over a year, Ace was homeless, relying on the kindness of friends for survival. He’s faced the cold reality of tool sheds for shelter and the daily threat of eviction from temporary lodgings. His cars, impounded; his dignity, challenged every day. Amidst this, the disciplined routine of military meals was replaced by an unpredictable scavenger hunt for food. Days when Ace’s only meal was the generosity of strangers and friends. The physical pain from his injuries often overshadowed by the gnawing pangs of hunger, a constant reminder of the precariousness of his situation. This is the harsh reality for a man who once faced enemies to protect our freedoms.
The nights brought their own terrors, with biting cold that seeped into his bones. Ace would bundle up with as many blankets as he could find, but they were never enough to fend off the chill or the bugs that seemed to crawl over everything. The streets became a place of restless sleep and constant vigilance, where the comfort of a warm bed was just a distant memory. Ace’s resilience is a testament to his strength, but no one should have to endure such hardships—especially those who have served their country with honor.
As this proposal is being written, Ace’s funds have been fully extinguished on housing and food. The $1,712 he receives monthly does not stretch far enough, leaving him in a dire situation as he awaits his next payment. The uncertainty of how he will make it until the 1st of the month is a weighty concern, adding to the already heavy burden he carries. It’s a burden shared by many veterans; in fact, it’s estimated that 11-12% of those who served in the same conflicts as Ace—Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Gulf War (Desert Storm)—also struggle with PTSD. Ace’s story is a stark reminder of the ongoing battles many veterans continue to fight long after the wars have ended.
The Heroism :
Ace is not just a veteran; he’s a war hero. He risked his life, taking down an assailant in a life-threatening encounter that left him with physical and emotional wounds. His bravery is unquestionable, his need for support, undeniable.
The Appeal:
We are calling on you to help reverse this injustice. Your contributions will provide Ace with the means to seek further medical treatment, secure stable housing, and reclaim the life of dignity he’s fought for. It’s time we stand with Ace, as he once stood for us.
The Goal:
Our goal is to raise $537,568—the amount Ace should have received. Every dollar brings us closer to giving this hero the future he deserves.
Ace’s Aspirations:
Despite the hardships, Ace’s spirit remains unbroken. He dreams of starting a YouTube channel titled “Semper Fi to DIY,” where he plans to showcase the mechanical engineering skills he honed in the Corps. This channel is more than a platform; it’s a beacon of hope, a step towards a future where Ace can share his knowledge and inspire others. It’s a testament to his resilience and a chance for him to reconnect with the world in a meaningful way.
Personal Note:
I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact that filing for disability has had on Ace, a war hero who bravely served our country. Night after night, I sat with him, reflecting on his service and injuries. His reluctance to file for benefits was not out of neglect; it stemmed from a deep-seated fear of reviving the painful memories associated with his service. This hesitation is a common thread among veterans, many of whom, like Ace, have served in operations where PTSD rates are as high as 11-12%. It’s a significant reason why he delayed seeking the benefits he so clearly deserves. As someone who is not a professional fundraiser, this is my first and only campaign, driven by the desire to right a tremendous wrong. If there are flaws in this submission, they are mine to own and remedy upon receipt of constructive feedback. Together, we can help Ace and acknowledge the silent battles many veterans continue to face.
Gift of Gratitude:
Every donor will get a 5 year premium subscription to Ace's coming Youtube channel "Semper Fi to DIY." Ace will also send every donor a message of gratitude, detailing how contributed funds have been used and the impact they have had on his life and wellbeing.
Conclusion:
Join us in this mission for justice. Support Ace’s campaign, share his story, and help us right the wrongs no American, least of
all a veteran, should face.
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