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Local hero, Matt Feldhouse honored with a surprise car overhaul at The Shops at Wiregrass

By Chuck Johnson U S Army MSG (ret)

On October 17, 2013 United States Air Force MSG Matthew Feldhouse was enjoying a quiet walk among the Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel, Florida . Matthew had served his country for over twenty years and several deployments to foreign countries. On his last deployment as he left to serve in Kurkistan, he left behind his 1998 Honda Prelude which had broken down and was in need of serious repair. Little did he know that Tim Harvey and members of the ‘Warriors”, a male group of church members from the Grow Life Church had a plan to make his return a joyful one.

At a small tent in the open air of the Shops of Wiregrass a large group of people gathered about. It was obvious a surprise was in store. Matthew had been led some distance away and was unaware of the gathering. As he entered the area the music was halted. Tim Harvey of the New Life Church took the stage and invited Matthew to come to the front of the stage, which he did to the applause of those who had come to see his surprise.

As he was being applauded for his military service to his country a deep roar of an engine came from in back of the stage area.’ I knew that was my Honda when I heard it’ Matthew related later. ‘However I was not prepared for the way it looked. They really got the colors right’.

The 1998 Honda Prelude came slowly around the stage area and into view. Matthew was speechless as he viewed his vehicle which now looked like new, come into view. When asked to enter the vehicle Matthew did not hesitate and was emotional as he thanked the many who were responsible which was lengthy.

Those who gave their time and hard work were Auto Body Express, Glen’s Wheel Polishing, B.J. Custom Upholstery, PPG Industries, LKQ Crystal River, Bill Currie Ford, Insignia Graphics, Medallion Elite Club plus the communities of Land O lakes and Wesley Chapel all shared in making this an experience Matthew would not forget.

Noah Schultz of Bill Currie Ford worked on the vehicle for about four months. “It was in bad shape when we got it” Schultz related. “It was a real challenge but we got it done”.

The Honda shining under the lights of the Shops at Wiregrass brought out the hard work and dedication of the three part automobile paint scheme on the vehicle which Matthew was so impressed with. “I cannot believe it” he related. ‘They must have talked to my Dad because that paint job is perfect”.

At the end of the evening everyone could rightfully say ‘This has been a good day’.

It is good to see a community come together and perform such an act for another especially someone who has dedicated their life to defend our country.

Thank you MSG Feldhouse. You deserved it. Now go and enjoy your new ride. By Chuck Johnson U S Army MSG (ret)

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