Thomas Hudson, the Walking Veteran, said he was a messenger to tell elected officials to restructure the Veterans Administration.
Hudson told around 100 people the journey from Reno, Nevada gave him a way to learn about veterans across America.
He said the effects of war doesn’t stop with the troops on the ground. Hudson pointed out that it is, “a family affair,” with all relatives feeling the effects of those in the military.
He was at the Henryetta civic center for a reception that allowed him to talk about his journey and the people he met.
He recognized Henryetta teen Daniel Cox for his kindness on a hot July day when Hudson came to town. Cox was honored with a proclamation in both Henryetta and Arkansas each designating a “Daniel Cox Day.”
Hudson presented Cox with a hat from Washington, D.C. thanking him for his help. He also presented a booklet of the U.S. Constitution.
Weleetka Schools superintendent Chris Carter honored Cox as well.
He said Cox is a third grade student. He said he was not surprised when he heard about the youth helping Hudson.
Daniel has a tremendous heart. “He always tries to do the right thing and help others when he can.”
“Daniel is an ordinary student who did an extraordinary act of kindness,” the superintendent continued.
He said those qualities were instilled by his parents.
In talking about the reception, Carter said the, “activities are amazing. It’s amazing what Mr. Hudson has done.”
Following the reception, the group was led by Kent Pharaoh on the bagpipes on a walk to the Territorial Museum where Hudson was shown the display of items from his wagon. Those items were collected along his walk and included various patches, pins and certificates.
He said he was speechless when he saw the display. “There’s so many stories behind these pictures,” he said.
Hudson pointed out his red shirt was in honor of all military personnel deployed overseas. “There was only one red shirt that I could find,” he said looking at the shirt and reflective vest in a glass frame.
