David Holland
William “David” Holland was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966 to serve in the Vietnam War. He completed his Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and got married to Bobbie, his amazing wife, before going to Fort Gordon, Georgia, for Advanced Training.
Active duty stationed David in Vietnam during the earlier part of his career in the Army. David served as a Specialist in Communications before returning to the states for the latter part of his military career, where he served as a Training Instructor. 1968 was the year when David was honorably discharged from the Army, but the following years would reveal that his experiences in the Army were never discharged from him.
David would tell his family that he did not want to watch anything on TV or any movies that pertained to Vietnam. “No one can describe what Vietnam was like unless they were actually there. God saved my life so many times,” says David. The Post-Traumatic Stress he developed from his service haunted David heavily as the years passed. David also sustained severe hearing loss and became deaf in one ear. He was not able to wear a hearing aid for 40 years. Additionally, David developed Diabetes due to exposure to Agent Orange and needed to have one of his legs amputated.
Despite the pain and hardships, David was able to find light in his civilian life. He receives endless love from Bobbie and their two children. David found working with his hands to be therapeutic, and enjoys welding and wood work. He is also able to obtain peace through the work he does for the homeless through ministry.
On a daily basis, David struggles with basic cognitive functions and problems with standing and walking. Purple Heart Homes will widen David’s doorways and add a roll-in shower to his bathroom. “I haven’t taken an actual shower since September 12, 2015. I’ve only been able to wash myself with pails of water. These renovations mean that life will be easier for my family and me,” says David. He continues, “It’s hard to put into words what all of this means. It’s truly a great blessing.”
It’s hard to put into words how much your service and sacrifice means to us, David. Thank you and welcome to the Purple Heart Homes family!
