TAMPA — More than 20 years after serving with the Marines in Somalia, Ronnie Gipson still deals with constant pain.
“I was in a Humvee accident, which caused problems with my back, my neck,” he said.
His injuries make it hard to be a father to his 7-year-old son.
“He wants to run and run. If I go running, I get a flare up. I’ll be down for the count,” he said.
But now this vet will have a little more freedom thanks to the generosity of others.
Through the Recycled Rides program, Ronnie now has a refurbished Kia Soul.
GEICO donated the car, and Caliber Collision in South Tampa fixed it up like new.
“I really do appreciate it from the bottom of my heart,” Gipson said.
Rob McGregor is with Soldiers’ Angels, the veterans support group that nominated Ronnie.
“We want to give back to our veterans, help the other guys that need help,” said McGregor.
“Those veterans that are out there; if you need help, don’t be ashamed to ask for it,” said Gipson.
Not only did Ronnie receive a car, but also a new bike to help him stay active.
The car’s trunk is also full of toys and sports equipment for his son.
For more information on Soldiers' Angles, click here.
