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91-Year-Old WWII Vet Gets New Home After Irma Damages Previous One

Left to right – SC Representative Joe Jefferson, BP Plant Manager John Harvey, Mr. Rufus Lockwood – 91 year old WWII Veteran and Huger resident, Hearts for Huger Board Chair Bernard Watson, NUCOR Steel Berkeley Plant Manager Giff Daughtridge, Mr. Al Jenkins from the Office of Senator Tim Scott.

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C.–After Hurricane Irma damaged the home of a World War II veteran in September, a Berkeley County community–along with the help of BP and U.S. Senator Tim Scott–recently joined forces to provide this local hero with a brand new home.

Volunteers made up of individuals, businesses and community organizations recently rallied together to condemn and replace the vet’s 1970 era mobile home with a new home along with new furnishings.

“At the request of Scott, BP supported the fundraising efforts and Cooper River employees also helped to build a new front porch and erect a flagpole,” stated Michael Abendhoff, a BP spokesperson. “This was truly a community effort and we were pleased to help play a part.”

Principal Mrs. Aidra Shaw and student from Cainhoy Elementary, Mr. Rufus Lockwood.

On Monday, a celebration was held at the BP Cooper River plant to mark the completion of the work. Rufus Lockwood, a 91 year old WWII Marine Veteran, and his wife will be able to enjoy the new home for the rest of their lives.

“Everyone came together to present Mr. Lockwood with flags flown over the SC Statehouse and the U.S. Capitol,” stated Abendhoff.

During the celebration, students from nearby Cainhoy Elementary led the group in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, sang “God Bless America” and presented Mr. Lockwood with a banner signed by students.

Lockwood and his wife live in the Huger community near BP and Nucor.

 

Nikki Gaskins Campbell
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