
Serving Alaskan veterans, Alaska Warrior Partnership (AKWP) knows how many obstacles can occur during our long, frigid winters. Though we have implemented our Winter Preparedness Project in recent years, many still need individual support. This was the case for Randy Horan*, a veteran who recently moved back to Alaska after serving in the Air Force for over 20 years.

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Randy, a former Air Force Master Sergeant (’64-’86), moved back to Alaska after losing his wife and selling his home in New Zealand. He had a truck, camper, and enclosed trailer with which he traveled to Alaska. In September, his truck engine failed, the battery exploding and leaking acid. Stranded at the Joint Base Elmendorf/Richardson (JBER) campground, he faced freezing weather with limited propane to keep warm. He had started working with a realtor to purchase a home but had yet to find a property he wanted to buy. A VA social worker then recommended AKWP, seeking assistance towing his truck to a campground with power hookups.
Scouring our resources, AKWP Case Coordinator Bambi Brewington connected Randy with a community partner at Operation Iron Warrior (OIW)- to provide him with the best possible support to meet his needs. OIW was able to meet Randy in Anchorage ASAP and get him a tow for his vehicles. On the tow day, Jeremiah from OIW discovered challenges: the truck was too heavy, and Randy’s enclosed trailer was immobile due to wiring and tire issues. Jeremiah provided warmth from his personal truck, coordinated a successful tow for the truck, and returned the following day to rewire the trailer, making it tow-ready. While Randy’s trailer was relocated to AKWP’s Winter Preparedness lot, his truck and camper were set up at the automotive shop.
While Randy was out looking for a permanent residence, the team worked on his truck and got it running. The truck was picked up, and now Randy can travel to all his appointments. Although he is still searching for a home, Randy is now warm and stable while continuing his journey. We are happy to continue working with Randy to get him the stable home life he deserves.
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