An Iraq War Army veteran was awarded more than $1,300 that helped him and his family with living expenses, thanks to the VFW Unmet Needs program.
Glenroy Wilson – shown with his wife, Nichole – was the recipient of a more than $1,300 grant from the VFW Unmet Needs program, which provides monetary aid to military families in need of financial assistance. Photo courtesy of Glenroy Wilson.Retired Army 1st Sgt. Glenroy Wilson, of Houston, served three tours in Iraq. His first deployment was in 2006-07 with the 1st Armored Division, and his other two were with the 1st Infantry Division in 2008-09 and 2010-11.
Wilson has a wife, Nichole, and three daughters ages 8 to 11 years old. He has a 100 percent VA disability rating due to his service-connected shoulder and knee injuries, as well as post-traumatic stress.
The health issues he sustained on active duty led to his medical retirement from the Army in September 2017. He said he isn’t able to work, and that prompted him to do some research for relief programs. That’s how he learned about Unmet Needs.
“It was a tough transition,” Wilson said. “I didn’t want the change the affect my family.”
The Unmet Needs program helps military families who have experienced unexpected financial difficulties. It provides financial aid to assist those with basic needs, such as an electric bill or rent.
Wilson, who is currently attending Texas Southern University for a master of business administration, thanked VFW for its support not only to him but other veterans who need help.
Wilson also said that he believes veterans are sometimes “too full of pride” to ask for help, but that it’s “OK” to ask for a little assistance when needed.
“It eased the burden on me, my wife and my three little girls,” Wilson said. “VFW having the Unmet Needs program shows that there are organizations out there that really do care and look out for veterans. I am very appreciative of VFW support.”
Learn more about the Unmet Needs program at www.vfw.org/unmetneeds.
This article was featured in the May/June 2019 issue of VFW Checkpoint. If you're a Post, District or Department Commander and aren't receiving the Checkpoint e-newsletter, please contact the VFW magazine at magazine@vfw.org.