Continuing to serve long after the time in the military has ended. That’s what brought several people to a home in Clinton County Friday.

The local chapter of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association is leading the effort to completely replace a roof at the home of a Vietnam Veteran. 

This is the largest project the group has taken on after completing several ramp installations. 

The organization told Local 4, the person they’re helping is well worth the work. 

The volunteers said it’s a brother and sisterhood to be there for one another in a time of need.

Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association member and volunteer John Crane said, “Do something good for someone else. Whether you get recognized for it or not, just do it.”

So, whether they have roofing experience or not, that’s why they’re turning out to help Ed. 

Vietnam Veteran Ed said, “This is massive.”

Above and beyond the call of duty.

Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association Treasurer Jeff Kilburg “After the kind of work he’s done, I am happy and proud to be here.”

It’s after a Vietnam Veteran south of DeWitt has made quite the impression on Jeff Kilburg.

Kilburg said, “Came back and volunteered his time for ten years to help other veterans navigate the paperwork to help get benefits and help them get the necessary stuff that they needed.”

After six months of planning, it’s time.

Kilburg said, “I kind of spearheaded the project to make sure it happened.”

Kilburg and fellow service members are heading up onto the roof to tear it apart and hammer in new shingles. 

Kilburg said, “This is a chance for comradery, to get a chance to work, do something better for our community, and you know, people donate to us to do this.”

An Army combat medic in the Vietnam War and Veterans Affairs volunteer, Ed said the Combat Vet Motorcycle Association has been there when he required assistance for others who’ve serviced with ramps and other needs.

Ed said, “It’s like having another brother someplace, you know. Somebody that you can count on to do something.”

But when Kilburg heard about the roof over the veterans service officer’s head, he knew this where they could help.

Ed said, “I had leaks in the house and replaced some tiles.”

The Association wanted to make sure it was one less thing to worry about, especially as this month arrives.  

Ed  “Going in for surgery next week [for hip and back], so I just can hardly get around.”

A gift like this can be hard to repay.

Ed said, “Give them a cold bottle of water and a hamburger when they’re done.”

For the veterans giving up their time and a little sweet to replace the shingles, this is a mission to honor.

Kilburg said, “I’m serving him today.”

The Association said a project like this could cost about $10,000, but with volunteer labor and the donated materials from Home Depot in Clinton, they will probably have a cost of $1,000 from the group to pay for the contractor.

The work is expected to be completed Saturday afternoon.

Combat Vets will have a ride and fundraiser June 15.