Operation Forgotten Valor

Hi, my name is Scott Laughlin and on November 10, 1775, one of America's most feared fighting forces was born in good ole Tun Tavern in the town of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Since then the Marines have taken part in many major battles such as the Battle of Derna, Chapultepec, Belleau Wood, Iwo Jima, and many more. The Marines have become known to leave a lasting impression in each battle and were welcomed home with Honor and looked at as Hero’s. But in the 1960's and 1970’s when America was engaged in one of history’s worst battles the men and women coming back from Vietnam were not being treated like Heroes and as many you know we’re given the worst welcome home possible. All branches of the military were treated with disrespect and were looked at as broken. Many veterans burned their uniforms and had to completely deny that they had even served. They had sacrificed their lives and had returned to a country that had completely turned their backs on them. They were treated like the scum of the earth and I for one feel like we owe it to them to make it right. There are so many Vietnam vets that are homeless, poor, unemployed, and starving. I myself have served in the Marines during Desert Storm and received a hero’s homecoming. So, I have started a fundraiser that I am calling the Operation Forgotten Valor that raises awareness and money to give to the many Vietnam Veterans of all branches who have been forgotten by Americans. Proceeds will go to providing meals, helping pay medical bills, clothes, etc. whatever I can do to help Vietnam Vets.

Plan:
My plan is to walk/bike from MCRD Parris Island, SC to MCRD San Diego, CA, this is the only two places in America where Marines are breed. They are approximately 2,500 miles apart. I plan to start my trek in March and have planned on making the trip in 62 days at a pace of approximately 40 miles a day. Volunteers are welcome to join me at any stage of my march.

Mission:
I am doing this to raise money and awareness for my heroes, The Vietnam Veterans. My proceeds will go to that specifically assist in helping Vietnam Veterans. We as Americans have failed at giving them a proper Homecoming so let’s do what we can to support them now before its too late.

Additional Info:
Any donations help and I am in the process of trying to acquire a big passenger van to use as a chase vehicle as well as my sleeping quarters for me and my chase driver. I will also be looking for vehicle-mounted fridge freezers and camp stoves to cook daily meals. Also an all-terrain road bike. I appreciate all the help. Contact Info Phone: (765-376-5874) Email: [e-mail geredigeerd]