AHERO Summer 2021 | Page 39

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LF : Everyone at AHERO is excited about the coming AHERO Warrior Lodge to accommodate more of the wounded and injured Veterans we try to serve . That makes us a super-grateful bunch for your Group ’ s part in what is our biggest project ever . How did you first hear of AHERO ?
AD : I first heard about AHERO through Lee ’ s father , Al Stuckey . Mr . Stuckey ( nicknamed “ Pinecone ”) has been harassing me for years for trees at his farm . He has always been such a joy to be around , with an extraordinary personality and attitude towards life . With him being a part of it , how could anyone not want to be involved ?
LF : How does The Wildlife Group ’ s philosophy tie in with AHERO ?
AD : We have been a part of several non-profit organizations . But to me , none as positive and vital as AHERO . Growing and nurturing trees from small plants to large productive trees can be very therapeutic . The young trees ’ progress from cold winters through the exhausting heat of summer is somewhat like the battles our Veterans face every day . That little tree must be strong enough to withstand all the battles , much like these heroes have had to be . If you want to see that tree prosper and grow to be a large tree , it must have some help along the way . If planting a tree will help any one of them , we are all in .
LF : What impact do you think the Warrior Lodge will have on the wounded Veterans who come to AHERO ?
AD : The Warrior Lodge will be a fantastic gathering spot for everyone to get together and rejoice in the victories of everyday life . Psalms 29:11 , The Lord gives strength to his people ; the Lord blesses his people with peace . Ephesians 6:13 , Therefore , take up the full armor of God , so that you will be able to resist in the evil day , and having done everything , to stand firm .
LF : Thanks so much to you and The Wildlife Group for your help and encouragement to our Veterans and your thoughtful participation in this conversation .
Lex McMahon gets into tree care at the Farm .
When it ' s happenin ' at AHERO Farm , " Pinecone " gets involved !
Allen Deese , with staff members ( l-r ) Kandis Mills and Jackie Yarbrough . " These ladies are the glue that holds it all together ," Deese says of the two .
AHERO MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021 39