After graduating from high school, Pat joined the Marine Corps in order to save money for college.

He spent 1969 in Vietnam.

“Fortunately, I came home just fine,” Pat said. “I learned a lot.”

After the military, Pat attended and graduated from Ball State University – which led to starting his career in state government.

Fast forward many years later, when ready for retirement in 2012, Pat knew he would spend this new season of life volunteering at HVAF. For years, he was already involved with HVAF – thanks to the organization’s cofounder and first CEO, the late Col. Don Moreau.

Don hired Pat right out of college and worked with him at many jobs throughout the years. He and his wife even attended Pat’s wedding.

“He became monumental throughout my career,” Pat said. “I always had a close relationship with Don.”

He is also honored to now volunteer in a center that is named after his mentor and “second father.”

“It’s my family being rewarded,” Pat said. “He was my family and still is my family.”

For the last 11 years, Pat has volunteered in HVAF’s food and clothing pantry. He has worn many hats over the years, including organizing the food donations and helping veterans pick out the clothes they need. Now, as the door greeter, he is the first face veterans see when they come through the pantry.

“It’s a fun thing to do. It gives me some purpose in my life,” Pat said. “As you get older, it’s good to have purpose in your life. It keeps you going.”