Local helps veterans through fundraiser
By Diana Royal Staff Writer

One local disabled veteran says it's his moral obligation to help our troops and their families, and he's established the Veterans Food Basket to do just that.

Buddy Faulkner, who reached E6 status in the Army and served three tours in Vietnam, says he knows what it's like to come home from serving our country and to need help.

That's where the Veterans Food Basket comes in.

In a series of turkey shoots, beginning Aug. 31 and lasting every weekend through the beginning of 2008, funds will be raised to help our military personnel, locally and in surrounding areas.

"I want to honor those who are giving up their time for their country," Faulkner says, adding that no one should be fighting in the heat and ducking bullets while his wife and children are at home hungry.

"If they need help, we'll help them," he says, explaining that he and his family will use funds collected for the Veterans Food Basket to take those in need grocery shopping or to help with a power bill … "whatever they need."

Several local businesses have already contributed to the fund, offering up free dinners, jewelry, car services and much more as prizes for the shoots, which will be held at Hawkins Auction on Highway 56.

And Faulkner says any member of the military family can seek help, whether on active or reserved duty or retired.

Those requiring assistance or anyone wanting further information regarding the turkey shoots can contact Faulkner at 706-437-9839 or 706-871-8380.