Veteran brotherhood is an unbreakable bond that shined when crisis struck WNC | Opinion

The word “brotherhood” is often tossed around lightly in today’s world, but for veterans, brotherhood is the bedrock of their existence. This isn’t just a fraternity of people with similar job histories. It’s a bond forged in adversity, mutual respect and a deep understanding that no one outside their circle can truly grasp.

This connection transcends individual branches of the military, time or rank. It’s a commitment that, once formed, exists for life. Perhaps nowhere is this more evident than in moments of crisis, when veterans rise to support each other as naturally as they would their own family.

Since 2008, the Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM) has provided a place of stability and healing for countless veterans transitioning out of homelessness at the Veterans Restoration Quarters. This 250-bed transitional housing facility — the fifth largest of its kind in the nation — has served as a model for best practices, a sanctuary for veterans and a beacon of hope in the community.

However, in the aftermath of a devastating storm, the once-peaceful campus was destroyed as the Swannanoa River surged more than 30 feet, flooding the grounds. While every veteran was safely evacuated, the facility they called home was left in ruins.

As resources were stretched and local organizations struggled to respond, three veteran led organizations didn’t wait for an invitation to step in. They mobilized to support these veterans who found their home swept away, showing the very essence of their distinct brotherhood in action.

With trucks loaded full of essentials — food, water, blankets and tools — veterans from Veterans Bridge Home of Charlotte and Upstate Warrior Solution of Greenville, S.C. drove to Asheville daily for the first three weeks after Hurricane Helene, committed to lending a hand. Upon arrival, they entered an environment of organized chaos, where ABCCM efficiently assessed damage and prioritized needs.

Despite the constant reassessment of needs and plans, these veterans organizations supported wherever possible — arranging meals, delivering food, setting up cots and beds to stabilize housing for displaced Veterans, and assisting with warehouse operations as ABCCM provided critical resources to the community. Together, these organizations catalyzed a powerful synergy of momentum and hope.

Meanwhile, members Team Rubicon, which mobilizes veterans for disaster response, were hard at work, clearing debris from over 120 rooms, mucking out mud, performing hazardous tree work and excavating around the Veterans Restoration Quarters. Their dedicated efforts accelerated restoration timelines by six months. Throughout this process, Team Rubicon’s empathy was evident in the careful handling of personal belongings they encountered — demonstrating both respect and compassion.

I’m deeply thankful for the veterans and their families who have served our great nation, with special gratitude for the veterans and volunteers of Team Rubicon, Veterans Bridge Home and Upstate Warrior Solution for embodying the values that bind us together.

The efforts of these veterans underscore a powerful truth — no matter where they are or what they’re doing in life, veterans are never truly alone.

This brotherhood stands apart because it’s founded on an understanding of shared sacrifices and values. While veterans may come from different branches, experiences and generations, they are united in a common thread of service.

This unity doesn’t dissolve upon leaving the military. Instead, it grows stronger, rooted in a deep sense of responsibility to each other. In a world where divisions often feel overwhelming, the actions of veterans during Hurricane Helene remind us of the strength found in unity and selflessness.

This Veterans Day, as we honor the service of all who have served, let us reflect on their unwavering commitment to each other and their communities, an inspiring example for us all. Their dedication is a powerful testament to what can be achieved through duty, compassion and loyalty.

For veterans, this camaraderie is not fleeting but a lifelong, unbreakable bond — a brotherhood that endures even in the fiercest storms.

Brandon Wilson is the Chief Operating Officer for ABCCM, www.abccm.org, and a combat Marine of Operation Iraqi Freedom.