Are you ready for a spontaneous road trip? You won’t believe what happened to Sergeant Jeff Turney when he received a phone call at the police station.
Packing his bags, Sergeant Turney embarked on an unexpected journey. The call came from one of Howard Benson’s children, who had reported their own father to the police. What unfolded next was a heartwarming and amusing tale.
Arriving at Benson’s home, Sergeant Turney found the 94-year-old veteran seated calmly, proudly wearing his WWII hat. Benson had an ambitious plan to drive from Glendale, Arizona, all the way to Florida to be closer to his family. His concerned children had called the police in hopes of persuading their stubborn father to reconsider.
Despite Sergeant Turney’s best efforts, it seemed like trying to move a mountain. However, he couldn’t simply leave Benson alone. Not only was Benson wheelchair-bound, making it impossible for him to drive, but he was also determined to fulfill his mission. His new nursing facility awaited him in Florida.
Sergeant Turney, known for going above and beyond for his community, decided to take matters into his own hands. Loading a towed trailer with Benson’s belongings, he offered to find a driver to accompany the elderly veteran. But upon reflection, Sergeant Turney realized he couldn’t let Benson go alone. He had the next three days off, so he proposed, “How about I take you?” Benson’s face lit up with surprise.
With his own vacation time and personal funds, Sergeant Turney joined Benson on this remarkable adventure. Over the course of three days, they shared stories of Benson’s 94 years of life, including his Navy service during World War II and his apprehensions about the upcoming move to the nursing home. Aware that this might be his last journey, Benson had chosen to drive so he could witness America’s beauty one final time.
Fortunately, Sergeant Turney was there to accompany him. Sadly, after their grand adventure, Benson peacefully passed away. The Glendale Police Department shared a poignant obituary on Twitter, highlighting how Benson had been able to experience his country one more time, celebrate another birthday, and observe another Veteran’s Day. In an interview with CBS, Benson expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’ve never seen a person so dedicated to helping people in my life. I can’t thank that gentleman enough.”
This inspiring story of a police officer’s decision to drive a veteran from Arizona to Florida is a testament to the compassion and selflessness that can be found in our communities. Share this remarkable tale with your friends and family and let it serve as a reminder of the power of kindness and human connection.