SHARON, Mass. (WHDH) — Herb Chambers presented Boston Marathon bombing hero, Carlos Arredondo, with an early birthday present.
“To see you do what you did rocked me. You truly are a hero,” said Chambers.
For the first time in nine years, the cowboy hero had something to smile about during his August birthday. It’s the same month his son was killed fighting in the Iraq war in 2004. On Marathon Monday, he was at the finish line handing out American flags. When the bombs exploded, Arredondo jumped into action.
“Since this happened I’ve seen the best of human kind people supporting the survivors and victims and victims’ families,” said Arredondo.
Boston Strong Ducks started the campaign to get Arredondo a new truck after hearing his was in desperate need of repairs. When they fell short on the goal, Herb Chambers stepped in. The community and support has been life changing for Arredondo and his wife.
“At the end of the day we go home with our dogs but our children aren’t there. It helps to have the community come out and feel inspired by Carlos, but they inspire us,” said Melida Arredondo, Carlos’ wife.
But this cowboy legend won’t be driving off into the sunset. Instead he said he’ll use this truck to continue his work for veterans and continue to be the driving force behind Boston Strong.