by Theresa Garee

Early in August, the Motts Military Museum was able to host two veterans who received all-terrain wheelchairs from the Freedom Alliance.

Freedom Alliance is one of the nation’s premier military support organizations. The chairs are customized to each service member’s needs and outfitted for comfort.

Freedom Alliance presented U.S. Army Sergeant Shane Parsons and Army Captain Judson Rambaud after different circumstances made their mobility difficult.

Sergeant Parsons joined the military after the Sept. 11, 2001. While serving in Iraq, in September 2006, his vehicle was hit by an Explosively Formed Penetrator (EFP), resulting in the loss of both legs and a severe traumatic brain injury. After extensive recovery, he was awarded the Purple Heart by President George W. Bush. He lives in Plain City with his family and enjoys hunting and fishing. The all-terrain wheelchair will make these pastimes more accessible for him. His wheelchair houses a gun rack and fishing pole compartment.

Army Captain Rambaud served 15 years as a Second Lieutenant in the Michigan Army National Guard including a deployment to Afghanistan. He was recently injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a distracted driver. Despite his injuries, he remains active on his family’s cattle farm.

Freedom Alliance offers programs that support the rehabilitation needs of wounded service members, combat veterans, and military families.

Motts Military Museum enjoyed hosting the special event and guests.

Next up at Motts Military Museum is the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony beginning at 8 a.m.