For nearly 60 years, Johnnie Hodges Sr. called house #369 on Humboldt Parkway in Buffalo, New York, home.
It's where he and his wife, Flora, raised their two children (Robin and Johnnie Jr.) and watched those children raise children of their own. And, after a lifetime of memories, it’s where he said his final goodbye to his beloved wife of 67 years.
But priceless memories don't pay bills and banks never forget. So when 90-year-old Johnnie fell behind on his mortgage payment after incurring more than $73,000 in medical bills for his wife's Alzheimer's, he was evicted.
Bank Evicts 90-Year-Old War Veteran
After the war, Johnnie worked at Bethlehem Steel for decades, where he was the first African-American foreman before the company shut down the plant. He then worked part-time as a bus driver before retiring in his 80s to become Flora's full-time caregiver.
It was during this time, living on a fixed income and with bills mounting, that his finances spiraled out of control and his house went into foreclosure.
According to the owner of the mortgage, M&T Bank, they tried for four years to evade eviction. But eventually, they were left without options.
“Under the rules that govern FHA mortgages such as this one, we went far above and beyond what was required, but there was nothing else we could do,” C. Michael Zabel, vice president of corporate communications at M&T, said in a statement.
On July 9, the police showed up at Johnnie's door, eviction notice in hand.
But Johnnie wasn't about to go without a fight. Finally, after a two-hour standoff, officers carried him out on a stretcher. His possessions were packed up and put into storage.
A Stranger Rallies the Troops
Greg Elwood of Williamsville, New York, heard about Johnnie on the local news. Despite never having met him, his story struck a deep chord.
Greg, 41, immediately knew he had to do something to help. But he knew he couldn't do it all on his own. So, he created a GoFundMe campaign to raise $50,000 to help get Johnnie back home.
“He fought for us in WWII and now he needs our help to fight for his home!” Greg wrote on the page.
As more and more news networks picked up the story, donations started pouring in. "We even received a donation from a 6 yr. old who raised the money at a lemonade stand," Greg wrote in an update.
Four months and 2,000 donations later, more than $110,000 was raised — enough to buy back the house AND pay for some much-needed repairs.
"Our original goal was $50,000, that was the amount that Robin needed to purchase the home back," Greg told ABC News. "It's just a wonderful feeling to know that he'll be back in that home to be able to celebrate the holidays with the family. He has a lot of memories in that home. It's very clear he was close with his late wife Flora and I just feel good knowing that he's at peace."
WWII Veteran Returns Home to a Hero’s Welcome
On November 6, Johnnie finally returned home.
The whole neighborhood came out to welcome him back, including elected officials and members of The Patriot’s Guard Riders, a motorcycle club.
There was even a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
"I'm very happy to be back...and spend Christmas with my family in my home," Johnnie told ABC News. "There's nothing like being with your family. This is a beautiful home I have and it really is a pleasure to be here."
As for Greg, he may have started out as a stranger but he's not anymore. He's become a treasured friend of the family's.
And while he's undoubtedly the hero, he's not here for the credit. He just hopes that his actions will inspire others to see the power we all have to truly make a difference, together.
"My hope is that this campaign serves as an example of the great things that happen when people come together."
Greg Elwood
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Military Dad Defends His 4 Little Daughters When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Military Dad of 4 Daughters Defends His Girls When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Austin von Letkemann is the military officer strangers feel "sorry" for — and the reason is infuriating.
Whenever the devoted father leaves the house with his four children, strangers can't help but notice the officer in uniform is holding hands with 4 adorable little girls. They will tell the traditionally "masculine" and "all American" dad they feel sorry for him, because he has no sons. This dad makes one thing very clear: They are his daughters, they aren't a burden.
In a passionate video, von Letkemann took to Instagram to share with his followers that the only thing that's "difficult" about being a girl dad — is clapping back to these sexist remarks over and over again.
They Mock His Daughters To Their Face
When strangers approach Austin von Letkemann and his four daughters, they don't always realize that their comments are being overheard. They seem oblivious to the fact that his girls understand every word. Von Letkemann describes how people will approach him and, without thinking, make remarks like "I'm sorry" or even joke about his lack of sons. What they don't realize is that these comments, intended to be light-hearted or humorous, can be deeply hurtful to his daughters. These strangers are not just disrespecting von Letkemann's choices as a father; they're also sending a message to his daughters that their presence is something to be pitied. It’s a message that von Letkemann won't stand for, and he's speaking out to defend his girls from these insensitive remarksSaying "Get Your Shotgun" Isn't Funny — It's Sexist
Another common comment that Austin von Letkemann encounters is the old "better get your shotgun ready" trope, often delivered with a smirk or a wink. This line is typically intended to suggest that a father with daughters should be on high alert to protect them from potential "suitors," implying that they are objects to be guarded rather than individuals with agency.
Von Letkemann finds this line of thinking outdated and sexist. In his viral Instagram video, he points out that these jokes are not just stale — they're damaging.
By suggesting that his daughters require armed protection, the joke reinforces the idea that women are inherently vulnerable and need to be shielded from men. Von Letkemann argues that instead of promoting this narrative, society should focus on teaching respect and consent, challenging these sexist tropes at their source.
Watch Austin von Letkemann's Video:
"If I Had A Fifth Child, I'd HOPE It Was A Girl" — One Dad's Message For Other Parents
Despite the constant remarks about his lack of sons, Austin von Letkemann is clear: He wouldn't trade his daughters for anything.
In fact, he told his Instagram followers that if he were to have a fifth child, he would hope for another girl. This declaration isn't just about doubling down on his pride in his family — it's a pointed response to those who see fathering daughters as a misfortune.
Von Letkemann's stance is a powerful one, rejecting the notion that a family is incomplete without sons. He encourages others to question the assumptions behind these comments and to appreciate the joy and fulfillment that his daughters bring. By sharing his story, von Letkemann hopes to create a more inclusive perspective on fatherhood, one that values daughters just as much as sons.