Wade Hunt, who often helps local veterans or others who need help, is willing to build a ramp for Russell Chandler’s home. However, Hunt is not able to purchase all the materials needed on his own. He estimates about $1,200 for the wood.
If you would like to help, there are several options. You can visit W&W lumber and ask for John in the contractor sales dept. Tell him the donation is to help Wade Hunt build a ramp. Hunt also has CashApp $Rampsforvets. Finally, you can contact Hunt on Facebook. Chandler’s daughter Debbie Deloney is a dispatcher for the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office and said, “This veteran is near and dear to my heart. If you could find it in your heart to help the ones who have served our country, it would be gratefully appreciated.” Deloney can also be found on Facebook.
Petty Officer First Class (Dwight) Russell Chandler was born in 1944 and joined the United States Navy in 1962 at the age of 17. He served aboard a Navy ship as a heavy equipment operator.
His platoon was the MBC 40 United States Seabees, and he served his last two years in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1970 after eight years of service to his country.
When he returned home, he worked as a ranch hand for Spice Island Ranch while also serving in the sheriff's auxiliary in his spare time. In 1973, he was hired by Okeechobee County Sheriff John Collier and went to work in corrections.
In 1977, he moved to road patrol under Sheriff Clayton Williams. After nine years, Chandler retired in 1981 under Sheriff OL Raulerson.
Now, Chandler needs some help so he can continue being an active part of our community. “Please help if you can,” said Chandler’s daughter.