Restoring a Hero’s Truck — A Gift for His Son

Restoring a Hero’s Truck — A Gift for His Son

Hi, my name is Preston Davenport. I’m a Marine Corps veteran, and I’m raising funds to restore the truck of my best friend and brother-in-arms, Josh Dumaw, who was killed in action by an IED on June 22nd, 2010, while we were serving together in Afghanistan.

Josh was more than a fellow Marine — he was my brother. The last conversation I had with him, we were arguing like brothers do — over who was going to carry the metal detector. In the middle of that moment, Josh turned to me and said,

“I’ve got a son to carry on my name.”

His son, Bodie Dumaw, was born shortly after Josh’s death and never got the chance to meet his father. That was 15 years ago. Bodie turns 15 this September, and I want to give him something meaningful — his dad’s 2000 Dodge Dakota Sport.

This truck holds so many memories. It’s been sitting since Josh’s passing, and I’ve kept it all these years. It runs, but not well enough to be safe or reliable for daily use. It needs serious work — engine repairs, drivetrain and cooling system upgrades, new tires, bodywork and paint, and interior restoration.

I know I’ll be putting more into the truck than its market value, but this isn’t about resale. It’s about legacy. It’s about honoring Josh. I want Bodie to be able to drive the same truck his father once did — to feel that connection, to carry on his dad’s memory every time he turns the key.

I can already picture it — Bodie behind the wheel, cruising down dirt roads with me, music playing, and his dad’s spirit riding with us.

As Bodie’s honorary uncle, this would be one of the greatest honors of my life — to gift him a part of his father.

If this story moves you, I ask for your support. Every donation — big or small — helps bring this dream to life. Thank you for helping honor the memory of a Marine, a father, and a hero.

Semper Fi,

Preston Davenport

Watching his son grow up and for him being my nephew this would be an all out pleasure.