SAN ANTONIO – After nearly a year of living on a broken futon in a field, a former U.S. Marine is starting over thanks to the efforts of several San Antonio-area organizations.
David Ludwick, 62, said he had become homeless after making some poor decisions and has spent months surviving on the streets, relying on strangers for food and shelter.
Despite the hardships, including freezing temperatures and other brutal elements, Ludwick said he remained resilient.
“All I can say is, ‘Once a Marine, always a Marine,’” Ludwick said, reflecting on his time living rough.
The turning point came last week when a Bexar County Military and Veterans Services director heard about Ludwick and connected him with the American GI Forum.
The forum secured a safe place for Ludwick to stay, a much-needed change after months of uncertainty.
“I was expecting just a bunk and a small place to stay, but they gave me a full bed, a sink and a bathroom,” Ludwick said.
The support didn’t stop there.
Brian Adams, a veteran himself and a student barber, heard about Ludwick’s story. Adams offered to give him a free haircut and beard trim.
Ludwick’s transformation was striking.
“We’re talking Michelin five-star here,” Ludwick said when he saw himself in the mirror after the haircut. “I don’t even recognize myself!”
With his new beginning, Ludwick said he is full of hope and eager to move forward. He credits his turnaround to the help he received and hopes others can learn from his mistakes.
“When I look at myself in the mirror now, I ask, ‘Why did you wait so long?’” Ludwick said. “But soon, I’ll be OK. Independent and moving forward.”
