Page 35 - Discover Fall 2022

Humble Neighbor,

Home Town Hero

By Ethan Walton

Have you ever met someone and As a neighbor, I know that I can always go to

thought to yourself, “Wow, they just don’t him seeking advice, help, or even just the ear
make them like they used to?” Maybe you of someone who is willing to listen.
have a relative, or a close friend or even a
Mr. Dooley has many titles: Son,
neighbor who amazes
Brother, Husband, Father,
you. Such is the case
Grandfather, and Great-
with me every time
grandfather. He has also
that I have the privilege
earned the title of Veteran.
of spending time with
I wouldn’t have guessed it
my neighbor and
when I first met him, as he
friend, Everette Alfred
is very humble, and will talk
Dooley. Now in his late
about his experiences only
80s, he continues to
if he is asked. Eager to learn
inspire me every day. I
about his time in the service,
always think to myself
I asked if I could sit down
“I hope I can still do
with him one day and hear
half the things this
his story. Graciously, he
man does when I am
agreed.
his age”.
When I was growing up,
He always
my role models were always
greets me with a wave,
the veterans who live among us. To me they
a big smile and a welcoming “How ya doin
are the real super heroes. Every one of them
neighbor!” as he maintains his 20-acre farm
has a story to tell. At one point in their lives,
nestled in beautiful Stewartsville Virginia.
they stood up, answered the call, and served
On many occasions I will have my three-year-
their country with honor. In peacetime and
old son with me. He is always eager to see Mr.
in war time, whether they were drafted or
Dooley, as he is very much aware that there is
volunteered, they all selflessly raised their
always a treat or a toy at the end of his visit.
right hands and swore to defend our nation

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