When The American Legion Auxiliary in Midway City, Calif., learned that a veteran’s family had lost its home in a recent fire, it immediately went into action to fulfill its primary mission – helping veterans any way it can.

The family of Marine veteran Alberto Godoy, his wife Dolores and three children, ages 4 to 13, was forced to escape their burning home in Adelanto, Calif., late last year. Thankfully, all were safe but were without most of their belongings. They are currently renting a hotel room until they can find a new place to live.

News of the Godoys’ plight reached the Midway City, Calif., American Legion Post 555 Auxiliary, which had adopted the family through the Veteran’s Administration Long Beach Healthcare System in nearby Long Beach.

Auxiliary President Kay Hamby said she immediately notified her team, the Post 555 (also known as the Triple Nickle) members, including the Sons of the American Legion, Legion Riders, Marine Corps League and frequent guests, and other post auxiliaries.

“Everybody really stepped up,” she said. “We arranged to have lunch with the family and used the occasion to present them with gift cards valued at more than $6,600.

“Needless to say, it was a very heartwarming experience – one that all of us will never forget.”