By Ginger Branson
Post 911 Adjutant

When Ryan Winslow Post 911 member Dick Rickart’s condo had a fire in late February, members sped into action.
Rickart, a Korean War veteran and longtime American Legion member, was left with the clothes on his back and a borrowed tiny wheelchair. His children live in Florida and California, so his Legion family became his main local support.
A collection was taken at the March meeting to help Rickart, 94, with some immediate needs, and our members were very generous. In addition, Krulak Marine Alliance of Alabama donated $100.
Members of the post visited him often during his stay at temporary lodging. I assisted by visiting three to four days a week, cleaning and bandaging an injury he had on his leg from a fall at the scene of the fire.
Post 911 provided meals, laundry, underwear and jogging suits for Rickart. In addition, we provided information on other services to him and his son, Richard.
The Birmingham V.A. Medical Center provided him with an appropriate wheelchair, physical therapy and a bedside commode.
Darryl Fuhrman, former member of the Sons of The American Legion and founder of the Lettermen of the USA, presented Rickart with a football signed by Coach Nick Saban; Rickart played football at the University of Alabama.
Through the assistance of Post 911's Jeff Newton, Rickart received placement at the William F. Green State Veterans Home in Bay Minette. When a spot opens up, he will move to the Col. Robert L. Howard Veterans Home in Pell City.