MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Marines with the Wounded Warrior Barracks, Wounded Warrior Battalion-East, Wounded Warrior Regiment, Manpower and Reserve Affairs, received a surprise visit here Jan. 14, from Marty Horn, president ofhttp://www.AnySoldier.com, a website dedicated to providing support and care packages for service members.
Horn and Air Force Reserve Lt. Col. Scott Remington, the support team director for the organization, arrived at the barracks with a trailer full of entertainment products and other donated items to show their appreciation for the wounded Marines and sailors.
“Since the beginning, we have wanted to do something for the troops who have paid the price of combat, and for their families,” said Horn.
The wounded warriors’ eyes widened as the truck was emptied. Flat screen televisions, video game systems, kitchen appliances, and laptop computers were quickly unloaded and brought to the lounge where the Marines had gathered.
“The things they brought will only reinforce unit cohesion,” said Cpl. Brandon D. Love, noncommissioned officer in charge, driver section. “It is always great to see Marines come together, but especially when they can relate with experiences.”
Horn felt very pleased at the outcome of his efforts. He had spent a long time soliciting businesses to donate money to the cause. Instead of giving the money to the Marines, he decided it would be better to buy things the Marines could enjoy.
"I think it is fantastic. Marty went well above and beyond what he should have,” said Sgt. Jason Simms, operations sergeant for the Wounded Warrior Barracks. “We can't begin to express our gratitude for what he has done for us.”
Horn’s contribution was appreciated by the senior Marines, who praised him.
“Marty Horn is indeed a true patriot and is no doubt one of the biggest supporters of our troops in the country,” said Lt. Col. Robert J. Nash, communications officer, 2nd Marine Logistics Group. “Marty has now clearly gone above and beyond his already ‘above and beyond’ status by soliciting businesses and corporations to contribute.”
Horn is humbled by the appreciation, but doesn’t plan to let this event be the end.
“This is wonderful, absolutely awesome,” Horn said. “This is only the beginning. We don’t want this to be the first and last, but the first of many.”