ABC11 Together: Veteran wants his story to help others like him
FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- ABC11 Together is bringing attention to our veterans in need.
Clarence Blackmon is a Korean War veteran who captured international headlines when he called 911 because he was hungry and had no way of getting food.
Read Mr. Blackmon's story here
Now, Blackmon wants his story to help other veterans who may be in a similar position.
Blackmon feels and looks so much better now than the first time ABC11 told his story.
That's when he came home from the hospital to a home without food. Without a way to get any nourishment, Blackmon desperately called 911.
The 911 operator and Fayetteville Police were able to get him food and even make him some ham sandwiches.
Blackmon said the subsequent outpouring of help since his story went viral has been overwhelming.
"Everyday since that time, I have received at least eight to ten to twelve phone calls and they bring food over here by the box-loads," Blackmon said.
It's not just food being delivered, either. One woman gave the 81-year-old veteran an electric lift chair. DSS workers check on him every other day, and Meals on Wheels serves him lunch. Volunteers now drive him to his doctor appointments.
"I tell you right now, that's love," Blackmon said.
While he gives God thanks for his blessings, he is also thankful that he's brought national attention to the plight of hungry senior citizens and homeless veterans.
"There are a lot of us old folks, and a lot of us didn't know what we could and could not do, and yet they are silent, and don't beg for anything."
He tells folks who want to send him money to make a donation to the Salvation Army instead. He says there's no reason for senior citizens to be hungry and suffer in silence.
"I urge senior citizens: Do not sit back, and hold your hands and fold your hands, I would say do not be silent," Blackmon said.
