by Tanner Colley
Memorial Day is a time we set aside to honor the tremendous sacrifice made by our military, past and present. I am not a veteran, yet I have had the honor of having veterans and active-duty service members be a part of my life. (My grandfather served in the Air Force, as well as many friends and family members). I feel something special in my heart when I spend time with one of our nation’s heroes. They teach me about integrity, sacrifice, and duty.
It’s been an absolute honor to be a part of Project Good. Honestly, it’s one of my favorite parts of my job at Solo Stove. Each story reminds me of the importance of community and spreading goodness in a time like these when we think it’s scarce. In the spirit of Memorial Day, I want to share with you some of the Project Good stories involving our nation’s heroes.
From all of us at Solo Stove, we appreciate the sacrifices made by military for our nation. While our gifts are nothing compared to all you have done for us, we hope a simple outdoor fire can help you find rest, comfort, and let you make precious memories with your friends and family.
Samuel J., shared by their spouse, Lindsey
“I’m requesting a solo stove for my incredible husband. He’s an army veteran who has been medically retired from duty after 15 years of service. He is the best dad to our two children and my best friend. He is a true outdoorsman who loves hiking, camping, kayaking, biking, snowboarding. He always takes our family on the most incredible adventures!”
Roy G., shared by their spouse, Allison
“Roy is a disabled combat veteran who, despite having PTSD and several body ailments, care for others while putting his needs last. People assume PTSD means anger and rage, but it’s not just that. It’s a stress disorder. Making a fire is his solace. At the end of the day, Roy sits by the fire and decompresses to start a new day.”
Jimmy B.K, shared by their brother, Jamey
“Jimmy is my twin brother. He is a medically retired, disabled Army veteran. Jimmy has the biggest heart and would give anyone his last penny. I’m not just saying it because he is my twin brother.”
Cody M., shared by their mother, Lori
“We are a military family. My husband is a retired USAF pilot who currently flies for United. Both of our sons are USAF pilots. Our oldest son, Cody, is a KC135 pilot for the Kansas Air National Guard. Cody was in a terrible accident last month and broke both his ankles. He is currently in a wheelchair and is unable to fly. He doesn’t let anything get him down. Cody deployed twice last fall, and we are so proud of him.”
Benjamin, C, shared by their spouse, Alexandria
“My husband has always worked hard not only to provide for me and his daughter, but his elderly parents, my parents, and our siblings. He never tells anyone he’s struggling but is the constant shoulder for everyone. When he served overseas, he went above and beyond to bring his soldiers home safe. He’s been through a lot, including being operated on in Afghanistan so he didn’t have to leave his troops.”