VFW offers aid and comfort in wake of Laurel County tornado

Yahoo

3 days ago

LONDON — In the aftermath of the devastating tornado that tore through London and Laurel County, local members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars have stepped in to provide support, resources, and relief to those impacted by the devastation.
A member of the VFW from Corbin, Dustin Barnett, said that he didn't hesitate once the news of the devastation had struck.
'My wife woke me up, and I threw stuff into my vehicle and went straight to Sunshine Hills,' said Barnett.
Sunshine Hills was one of the subdivisions directly in the storm's path, where numerous homes were leveled and several lives were tragically lost in its wake.
Barnett has been on the ground since day one of the destruction, and has been one of the driving forces that has coordinated efforts to support the community of London and Laurel County in the wake of the EF-4 disaster. From organizing supply drives, clearing debris, and personally helping families in need — his work has not gone unnoticed.
A member of the VFW from Grayson County said that the leveling and destruction was unlike anything he had seen before.
'I've been in combat zones that have been cleaner than this,' he described.
The Grayson County VFW post has also been one of the many helpful volunteer efforts for the hard-hit areas. They have brought in side-by-sides, supplies, trucks, and many other tools to clear the debris.
Barnett also spoke about the tremendous help from the home improvement retail chain Lowes, who has donated fence panels, multiple generators, sand tools, and gloves.
Members from multiple VFW posts — including Laurel, Rockcastle, Pulaski, Lincoln, and Whitley counties — are also set up at the London-Corbin Airport to distribute essential supplies to community members.
Volunteers set up under the tent have been handing out goods ranging from cleaning items, food, and personal care products — offering a small sense of comfort to those reeling from the destruction.
'It's beyond words to see the outpouring of donations and support that this area has received. We also had James Rundberg from the Department of Texas VFW on hand helping us. Thank you, to all the posts across the state and country that are helping right now with donations and time. It is well appreciated,' B.J. Thomason, State J.V. Commander detailed in a Department of KY VFW post on Facebook.
The DAV of London (Disabled American Veterans) were also to be distributing emergency supplies Wednesday and Thursday, May 29) at 300 DAV Lane to provide financial assistance to veterans impacted by the storms. The event is open to all veterans in the community, regardless of DAV membership.