To celebrate Veteran’s Day this week, a dedicated 50-year volunteer for Disabled American Veterans was gifted a new van so he could continue his labor of love.
Former US Marine Len Johnson drives to other veterans’ homes in Philadelphia to support them in any way he can—so people at the TrueCar website saw an opportunity to honor him.
At the age of 18, he served in Vietnam and the Lance corporal received multiple shrapnel wounds during a firefight causing him to lose the use of his left foot. Despite that, he serves local veterans and drops off toys for the children at the Catholic Workers Orphanage.
A video shows the moment Len was surprised with a new retrofitted Chevy Traverse from TrueCar’s 8th annual DrivenToDrive initiative—which is designed to honor the sacrifices made by service members and their families by supporting their mobility needs.
“I feel good knowing that I can finally retire my 20-year-old car and continue my service to the community with this donation,” said the 74-year-old vet who also has limited mobility in his right leg.
Johnson has been using his own vehicle with over 300,000 miles on it for all his volunteer activities, which include helping veterans who are incarcerated.
Over a lifetime of service, Len has been recognized with the Purple Heart, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and a Presidential Unit Citation.
“We’re honored to have the privilege to celebrate Marine veteran, Lance Corporal Len Johnson, who not only served in Vietnam but continues to serve various communities, including his fellow veterans,” said Mike Darrow, President and CEO of TrueCar. “We’re thrilled to be able to help him continue his mission by awarding him this new vehicle.”
WATCH the surprise below – and Learn More about DrivenToDrive’s past recipients…
SPREAD the Love by Sharing His Story of Kindness on Social Media…