Dennis served two years in Vietnam, then went on with his life, eventually settling in Cambodia.

But as sometimes happens, Dennis found himself in a real bind. He was sick and getting worse, short on food, and unable to access his money. He did what every American abroad is told to do: he contacted the US Embassy.

When Embassy staff learned Dennis was a veteran, they reached out to Mayaguez Memorial VFW Post 11575 and connected us with him.

That’s where Cody Fuerst, our Post Benefits Advisor, stepped in.

Cody took it from there. He became the point of contact between Dennis and his family back home, who arranged his flight and sent money to cover his needs. Until those funds arrived, Cody made sure Dennis had food and a way to stay in touch, paying out of his own pocket. On departure day, he picked Dennis up and escorted him to the airport to make sure nothing else went wrong.

"You have help if you want it,” Cody said. "For a long time, veterans have been pushed aside and forgotten.

They’ve been alone, not knowing that someone honestly cares about them.

I do.

You are not forgotten, and you are not alone anymore.”

Dennis was excited to be heading home and is looking forward to getting the care he needs through the VA.

We wish Dennis safe travels and good health.

If you’re a veteran in Cambodia facing hardship, or you know one who is, contact Post 11575 at info@vfw11575.org. Our ability to help veterans like Dennis depends on members and supporters.

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