The Alabama Republican Party is raising funds to help the families of two Alabama veterans captured in Ukraine. The goal is to raise enough money to pay off their bills before Christmas.
In June, Alex Drueke and Andy Huyn were captured by Russian forces in Ukraine. The two veterans had been serving alongside Ukrainian forces to fight against the Russian invasion.
After being reported missing in June, the men were released in September as a part of a prisoner exchange.
According to the press release, “The ALGOP has started a GoFundMe account to aid the families, and Chairman Wahl has also arranged for anonymous ALGOP donors to personally match all funds raised towards the target amount.”
“We are incredibly thankful for Alex and Andy’s sacrifice,” Wahl said, “both during their time in the U.S. military and what they went through on behalf of the people of Ukraine. When I learned their families were paying off their flights home, I felt it was important for us to step up and help.
“These families went through so much, and I wanted to show that we cared. The Alabama Republican Party has always been supportive of our veterans, and this is just one small way we can help give back.”
Wahl said the campaign is just a way to show “appreciation” to the veterans this Christmas season.
“People across our state prayed for Andy and Alex’s safe return,” he said. “We thank God that they made it home, and that they are able to spend this Christmas with their families. We hope this campaign will do a little to show our appreciation, and let them know that the people of Alabama are glad they are home this holiday season.”
Alabama’s political committee rules do not allow the Republican Party to contribute directly.
A GoFundMe account has been set up to raise $5,000 for the families. All funds raised will go directly to Dianna Shaw – Alex Drueke’s aunt.
Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on Twitter @Yaffee
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