Service group presents check to 96-year-old veteran

Menifee 24/7 photo

Community members and businesses who have been assisting a 96-year-old Marine veteran from Menifee came together again on Saturday to provide further support.

Don Reed, who was at Iwo Jima during World War II, was ill and unable to come outside to participate in the presentation by the Menifee Valley Lions Club of a check for $2,416 to help offset costs Reed incurs in remaining in his Sun City home.

The money was raised during a fundraiser held at Applebee's -- one of many local businesses and groups that have helped fund maintenance projects and health care assistance for Reed. Groups include Raized Up Car Club, Menifee VFW Post 1956, the VFW Temecula motorcycle club and the Valley Resource Center. Castillo Heating & Air serviced the air conditioning in the home, the Murrieta Raiders Club will paint the exterior, Roof Tech Roofing will replace the roof, and Standard Carpet replaced flooring.

True Value Hardware, Lowe's and Home Depot also donated to the cause. In December, members of the VFW Empire Chapter Motorcycle Club presented Reed with a walker and shower assist seat (below).

Mayor Neil Winter and council members Greg August and Lesa Sobek represented the City of Menifee at the check presentation.

Photo courtesy of Anthony Christopher