Raising awareness of veterans one step at a time

Jun. 18--William Shuttleworth, 71, of Newburyport, Massachusetts, is on a journey to help veterans.

Shuttleworth, who walks a four minute mile, started May 15 walking from Massachusetts to California in order to raise awareness of veterans who are struggling with employment, addiction and sobriety issues.

Shuttleworth traveled through Lincoln Tuesday in hopes of bringing awareness to veteran issues.

"Veterans gave a lot and often have little to show for it. More than 25percent of all homeless men are veterans, and many of these forgotten warriors struggle with employment, addiction and sobriety. These men and women have little voice in Congress. Today, less than 8 percent of Congress has served in the military, compared to 78 percent in 1972. With fewer veterans in Washington, who will speak and advocate for them? We need change," wrote Shuttleworth in a press release.

Shuttleworth, who served in the United States Air Force for six years, including active and reserve time, said his mission is for his fellow men and women who served.

"I don't think a person in congress should receive a better health care plan for life than a person who signed on with their life," he continued.

While on his journey he has experienced the worst weather conditions.

"I was in Ohio and I was in a tent. The wind picked up and I walked to a nearby house and the owner pulled me inside and said there was a tornado in the area," said Shuttleworth.

"I have met some amazing veterans along the way and if we support them by putting them in office then things will change for the better."

Shuttleworth has created a Go Fund Me page "Vets Don't Forget Vets Campaign" and a Facebook page with the same name.

Funds raised will support Shuttleworth's 3,000 mile trek and help offset his minimalist approach of raising awareness of veterans. According to Shuttleworth all other funds will be donated to the Disable American Veteran programs.

He will continue his journey with plans to walk from Lincoln to Havana on Wednesday.

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