Lori is a wonderful angel who visits our wounded and ill Marines, giving comfort and support as she goes. She volunteers not only with Operation PAL, but also helps Purple Heart Family Support provide weekly meals to Wounded Warriors. She is also an ‘official hugger’ for sendoffs and homecomings.

To Lori, serving Wounded Warriors at the dinners every week; hugging them and being able to give them a home-like environment is what it is all about. “They are so grateful for us being there,” said Lori, “but they have no idea how grateful and unbelievably humbled and privileged we are to be allowed to be there for them.” Lori’s husband, Michael, has also been to several events. He is a wonderful man who supports Lori 100% and always encourages her behind the scenes.

One Wounded Warrior who is currently on Lori’s heart is LCpl Arron. He really looks forward to the PHFS dinners, and has continued coming to them even though he is undergoing aggressive chemo treatments. Through everything, LCpl Arron has continued to set goals and fight what the chemo does to him. One of the goals he is excited about is marrying his fiance Michelle whom he plans to marry this summer.

“Seeing the look on these young men and women's faces and knowing they're going to receive some loving care is an indescribable gift...just priceless,” says Lori. “I can't imagine doing anything else. I am truly blessed!”

The strong spirit of giving in Lori’s family dates back to her great grandma, who used to give fresh bread and other baked goods to families who had been deeply affected by the Depression. Lori’s grandma got an early start on her gracious giving at age 5 when she gave her favorite doll and her newly made clothes to the youngest girl of an underprivileged family.

Lori’s grandma used to recall that “when her mom requested that I give my doll to the little girl, I looked up at my mom and saw a beautiful smile and an unbelievable love in her eyes. I immediately handed the doll and the new clothes to the little girl. The little girl's eyes were so wide and full of joy, and she happily cried, "Thank you, Miss!" The look in the little girl’s eyes, and the feeling I felt was something I would never forget. The event changed my life forever.”

Lori’s grandma lived for 87 years, and was the hands and feet of Jesus in her every day walk. Lori says that she is the reason her family has dedicated themselves to giving their entire lives.

Our Operation PAL participants are spread all over the country, but the few who have been visited by Lori are truly lucky ones. She finds those who need cards and prayers and lets them know there are people out there who want to send their appreciation and good wishes for recovery.

Thank you Lori for allowing the citizens of this country to express their appreciation for what these Marines do. They need the encouragement to get through the tough times in their illness or their rehabilitation from wounds suffered at war.