Robert Finds History and Hope at Mount Rushmore
Since he was young, Robert has had an appreciation for history. Learning about the significant people and events in America’s past fascinated him, and he would spend hours paging through his history textbooks.
He remembers the first time he read about Mount Rushmore and could hardly believe that the majestic presidential faces were carved into stone. Someday, he hoped to see it with his own eyes.
But first, Robert was driven to serve. As a young man, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. During the Vietnam War, Robert served as a Squad Leader. During Operation Desert Storm, Robert was a Maintenance Section Chief, serving close to the front line of battle to repair salvageable vehicles and encourage the troops.
Returning to civilian life was not an easy transition. Robert brought with him the physical scars from exposure to Agent Orange and the emotional weight of the painful realities of war.
When he applied for work, Robert encountered rejection and was denied new opportunities, told that his military background was insufficient. He had given so much of himself but received so little in return upon returning home.
“It hurt so much having just served my country just to get back and have them reject me,” Robert shared.
Despite his adversity, Robert continued to serve, this time focusing on his community. He spent time with the American Legion and Veterans for Justice, supporting and assisting his fellow veterans. Alongside his wife, Peggy, he delivered meals with his church to people experiencing homelessness and contributed to activities at food shelters.
When we heard Robert’s story, we knew it was our chance to recognize this brave veteran’s commitment to service and community.
At age 77, Robert, experienced the unique joy of fulfilling a lifelong dream. We helped Robert and Peggy embark on a meaningful trip to a place Robert had envisioned since he was a child. Finally, he would see Mount Rushmore!
When they arrived at the National Memorial in South Dakota, Robert and Peggy were warmly greeted by Mount Rushmore staff and Park Rangers, who would take them on a VIP tour of the museum and monument. They learned about the memorial’s unique history and how the majestic figures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln were carved into stone.
Robert shared that connecting with the park rangers was among the trip’s highlights. He sincerely enjoyed speaking with the local experts, which rekindled his love for our nation’s history.
“Talking with people and listening to the park ranger brought to life everything I read about,” Robert said. “She was like a walking encyclopedia!“
Most of all, Robert felt like an honored guest, respected and welcomed by those around him. It was a well-deserved commemoration for his long-held commitment to country and community.
“It was almost unreal; it’s hard to find the words,” he said. “We didn’t have to worry about anything. We felt like we were king and queen that day!”
After returning home, Robert expressed his deep gratitude for his wish. “I want to thank y’all for helping me fulfill my lifetime dream,” he said.
He and Peggy hope to bring their sons to South Dakota someday so they, too, can experience the beauty of the Black Hills and understand the cultural legacy of Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Our thanks go to Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, our official Hotel Provider, for their support that helps make life-changing wishes come true, including Robert’s.
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