Veteran Uses Ford F-150 as Final Tribute to His Brothers in Arms
Ron Elliot has spent decades transporting fallen vets in his Ford F-150. But now he needs help fixing it up.
We’ve reached a point in history where we’re losing veterans to the sands of time at an alarming rate. And for those who weren’t around to witness their heroism, it’s hard to fathom the sacrifices these once young men made to solidify the freedoms we enjoy today. Which is exactly why one of those same heroes, Vietnam veteran Ron Elliot, is spending his time giving his fallen brothers in arms one last tribute. And he’s doing it with his Ford F-150.
Elliot and his truck have made hundreds of trips, spanning over 150,000 miles across the country to pick up and transport the remains of veterans to their final resting place. And amazingly, it’s actually the second such vehicle Elliot has used in his 50 years of providing this service. When asked how he came about the idea in an interview with WDEL News, Elliot’s answer was quite simple. And touching.
“From losing so many brothers over there, I said ‘I’ve got to do something where they won’t be forgotten,'” he said. “It’s not hard to me. I’m glad to do it for them. At least we go out in style, not like the other soldiers from World War II and Korea.”
The Ford F-150 Elliot uses on his thankless mission isn’t any ordinary rig, either. The names of Delaware veterans killed in combat adorn the bed cap. One of which, joined by a portrait, was a good friend of Elliot’s. Inside, a pair of “battlefield crosses” are joined by a mural and American flags.
Sadly, Elliot’s travels have taken quite a toll on his old Ford F-150. Now it’s in need of some cosmetic repairs after years of service. The generous veteran has started a Go Fund Me page in an attempt to raise the funds needed to get his old ride back into shape. And we can’t possibly think of a better cause to donate to!
Join the F-150 Online forums now!
