Montgomery AL –The Alabama Republican Party raises funds to assist the families of two Alabama veterans who were captured in Ukraine. This includes expenses incurred during the return of the two men. The campaign’s goal is to raise enough money before Christmas to pay all the bills.
Alex Drueke, Andy Huyn, and Andy Huyn were veterans who went to Ukraine to fight against Russian invaders. They were captured in Kharkiv on June this year. After negotiations with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, their release from captivity was achieved in September. This remarkable story caught the attention of the Nation. Although the story of these two Alabama residents has been widely reported, the financial hardships that their families have suffered from this ordeal have largely gone unreported. The two men were held for several months without being able to earn a living. Family members continue to work to pay the bills and cover the cost of returning home from Riyadh by the U.S Embassy.
John Wahl, the Chairman of the Alabama Republican Party, was in touch with the families and offered his help to raise funds to pay the bills. Although Alabama’s rules for political committees prohibit the Republican Party from contributing directly to the cause, Chairman Wahl encourages members of the party and the public to give special Christmas gifts to these veterans this holiday season. To help the families, the ALGOP set up a GoFundMe account. Chairman Wahl also made arrangements for anonymous ALGOP donors that will match any funds raised.
“We are extremely grateful for Alex’s and Andy’s sacrifices, both in their time with the U.S. Military and the work they did for the people of Ukraine. Their families were paying for their return flights, and I felt it was imperative that we help them. These families have been through so much and I wanted them to know that we care. John Wahl stated that the Alabama Republican Party has been supportive of veterans for years. This is one way we can give back.”
To raise $5000, a GoFundMe account was created. All funds raised will be sent to Dianna Shaw, Alex Drueke’s aunt. She used her credit card to pay all expenses and brought both men home. None of the funds will be sent to the ALGOP.
Alex is a Tuscaloosa resident who was a soldier in the Iraq War. Andy Huyn resides in Lawrence County. He was a Calhoun Community College student and served four years in the Marines. For more information on their story, visit www.praythemhome.net.
“People from all over the state prayed for Alex and Andy’s safe return. We are thankful that they were able to return home safely and can spend Christmas with their families. Chairman Wahl stated that we hope the campaign will show our appreciation and let them know that Alabamans are happy they are home for Christmas.
