Collin Fall 2025

Whiskers for Wounded Warriors provides support for area veterans

by | Jul 7, 2017 | Life & Style

Volunteers from Whiskers for Wounded Warriors visit veterans at the Dallas VA hospital the first Sunday of each month. Mike Wilburn, bottom left, is the group’s founder. Photo courtesy of Justin Shields.

A brigade of bearded men make their way through the hallways of the Dallas VA hospital the first Sunday of each month on a mission. It’s a simple one and a noble one. They want to meet veterans and let them know how much they appreciate their sacrifice and their service.

Looking a bit like a cross between the band ZZ Top and the men of Duck Dynasty, this group, known as Whiskers for Wounded Warriors, have been stepping inside hospital rooms for three years now visiting veterans and their families. These bearded men with big hearts simply greet each patient with dignity and respect telling them “thank you for your service.”

“It blows them away because nobody ever tells them that,” said Mike Wilburn, founder of Whiskers for Wounded Warriors.

Though it took a while to build a rapport with the VA staff and veterans, the group of men who look like “woolly mammoths” or Repo men, as Wilburn says, eventually earn the trust of those they encounter with their big hearts and sincere gratitude.

“They don’t trust us when we walk into a hospital room looking like we do,” Wilburn said.

By Sonia Duggan • [email protected]

For the complete story see the July 7 edition of The Farmersville Times or click here for the e-Edition.

NTMWD 2025

0 Comments

Collin Fall 2025

Related News

What’s the buzz about pollinators?

What’s the buzz about pollinators?

It’s easy to overlook them as we go about our busy lives, but pollinators are some of the most essential—and unsung—workers in our ecosystems. The next time you stop to smell the roses, take a closer look. You might spot a bee, butterfly, or even a beetle helping that...

read more
Life’s a beach for these former Wylie residents

Life’s a beach for these former Wylie residents

The Two Tickets to Paradise cottage in St. Thomas offers panoramic views of Hull Bay and the 2-acre property which includes a large deck with a pool, cabana, grill and bar, plus an assortment of cozy seating areas. It started with a fundraiser and a cottage called Two...

read more
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with food

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with food

Cinco de Mayo is a relatively insignificant holiday on the Mexican calendar. However, among Americans, Cinco de Mayo has become an opportunity to celebrate Mexican culture and cuisine. Each year on May 5, many Cinco de Mayo celebrants toast with their favorite...

read more
Subscribe 300x250 - Love