Posted by dgd/CA on 11/11/12 7:31pm
Msg #443012

One of my "volunteer days"

I donate my time (a minimum of) 36 days per year. This day, and others, I give my time freely to various non-profit Veterans entities. My day started at (PST) 4 AM (my military friends know this as 0400 hours).

In California, we cannot charge any Veteran that is applying for qualified military status request...regardless of the entitlement. However, even though I always advise my Veteran GNW requests of their rights, they are not always able (makes my mind and heart hurt) to locate a "standing" NR to complete their forms (Gawd For-bide, a salaried "stand alone" NR that recalls the law). Whilst I Do Not charge for a Notarial Act, I do, often times, collect for my mobile fee. Be that as it may, if their circumstances were such that they could not afford my most "minimum" of charges, I personally feel that it is incumbent upon to me to just say ..."...Yes... let's work this out at a time convenient to us all." (BTW, I really don't particularity care if the request has anything to do with <that> law,or; if it's an Inter-spousal Deed; Non Contested Separation or Divorce; Claim for Personal (non-military related) Disability; a required Notarized Statement; Restraining Order against an individual; Affidavit of Death for a family member; Background Check Consent; a POA, etc. I feel, that it is my responsibility as a citizen, and grateful American, to pay back to those that have served our country and great Nation, as much as is possible.)

Today, my starting time was 4 am (lots of sleepless Veterans out there). In the three facilities I visited today, I met so many wonderful individuals (regardless of their current circumstances), and was offered, and partaked "upon the quick," breakfast; coffee; snacks; water and lunch. As fatigued as I was, I drove home with a smile...

Now, I'm enjoying a glass red, in my small, but warm and cozy home... thanking all that is good and just in the world for my Commission and my ability to give back (in my small way) to those that count the most.

Reply by 101livescan on 11/11/12 7:39pm
Msg #443015

Blessings to you for this wonderful effort. I had a signing on Friday with a retired USMC pilot, then commercial pilot. He and his lovely wife gave me limes from their tree and a cook book they coauthored on a thousand ways to use limes. Sweet.

How fortunate you are to be able to extend this service to our vets. What a tremendous experience for you...

I know I was still asleep at 0400...like so many of us here at home. Abroad it is likely another story.

You're the best!

Reply by dgd/CA on 11/12/12 9:27am
Msg #443066

One of my favorite signings, although lately the number of pages from some Lenders makes one gag, is for a Veteran and spouse (or widow/widower of a Veteran). They are, most often, highly disciplined and the paperwork just seems to flow at a very quick pace. It's been my experience they are also very welcoming and kind.

I do charge for them (while I'm guided by my desire to give back to those that serve, this is most assuredly one of my exceptions lol).

Congratulations on your signing and your positive experience.

Reply by pdl/cali on 11/11/12 10:01pm
Msg #443028

You thoughtfulness has touched their hearts. I enjoy giving to those who have served our country. Enjoy the rest of your evening.

Reply by JanetK_CA on 11/12/12 12:42am
Msg #443032

You've inspired and done us proud! Major kudos to you! n/m

Reply by Linda_H/FL on 11/12/12 7:47am
Msg #443043

That is a wonderful wonderful thing you've done

and do. Kudos to you..

Reply by dgd/CA on 11/12/12 9:46am
Msg #443072

Thank you, one and all. :) ... n/m