Jim “J.R.” Robinson had just received his newly refurbished motorized wheelchair when the jokes came fast and furious:
“I would rather that they gave me a Cadillac, but this isn’t too bad.”
“I think I’ll take it over to the Acme parking lot and practice driving.”
“I’m ready for my first drag race.”
“I can’t wait until I get my first speeding ticket.”
Robinson, a decorated Marine Corps veteran from the Vietnam era, and Ocean City resident, turned a little more serious when approached by OCNJDaily.
“This is just outstanding,” he said. “It’s great to have friends like this. I am completely overwhelmed.”
Ocean City’s American Legion Post 524 collects used chairs, both motorized and manual, refurbishes them and presents them to deserving recipients. J.R., who earned three Purple Hearts in Vietnam and is currently on oxygen, certainly qualifies.
Post Commander Jim Sambucci said the Legionnaires were gratified to help out a fellow Vet.
The presentation was made as a surprise announcement following Saturday’s flag-raising ceremony in front of the Ocean City Water Park. Each morning at 9:20 a.m., the Water Park employees play the national anthem and raise the U.S. colors. More than 100 people were on hand for the festivities on a sun-splashed Saturday.
Jack Hagan, Adjutant for the Post, said individuals donate the chairs and the Deka battery Company provides the vehicles’ power packs.
“We are always looking for donations and we would appreciate it if anyone has a wheelchair they no longer need would consider donating it. We will certainly put it to good use.”
Anyone interested in doing so should call Hagan at 609-304-3088.
