Response Updates

The Warrior’s Journey Brightens Christmas for Military Members

USA Reported by Convoy of Hope

The hustle and bustle of the holidays comes to a screeching halt on Christmas day. For some, it can suddenly feel very lonely.

That’s why Convoy of Hope teamed up with The Warrior’s Journey — a nonprofit that helps military members and their families navigate complex life issues — to bring “home” to personnel away from their families this Christmas. 

Members received some 700 gift bags from Convoy of Hope with snack items, Bombas socks, and playing cards.

“Spending the first 14 years of our marriage in the U.S. Air Force, there were only three years we made it home for any holiday,” said Ernie Bywater with The Warrior’s Journey. By default, the people around him became his extended family. Now, he’s giving back to those who are away from their loved ones during the holidays.

“Any time there is an opportunity to bless service members and give them a feel of ‘home,’ it’s important to me to do that,” Ernie said. 

But Ernie isn’t the only one making the holidays brighter.

“As a veteran experiencing separation from family during Christmas on six different occasions, gestures of love and kindness meant so much,” said Kevin Weaver, also with The Warrior’s Journey. “It’s so encouraging to know that there are people out there who appreciate the sacrifices that families make to keep our country secure.”

Ernie, Kevin, and others spent their Christmas weekend handing out gifts and hope.

“Convoy of Hope is helping The Warrior’s Journey take this opportunity to a whole new level,” Kevin said. “As we give these gifts of hope, we pray for families as they navigate the challenges of being without their loved ones this holiday season. As a father of two sons who are active duty, this takes on an even deeper meaning.”

Ernie said, “From The Warriors Journey standpoint, we will always take any opportunity to help our service members know they are not forgotten. ”

Thank you to the donors and supporters who make partnerships like this possible. To learn more about The Warrior’s Journey, click here. To learn more about the work Convoy is doing, click here.

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