Vietnam War Veteran Raises Money For Rehab Facility In Keys

War Vet Who Lived For a Month on a Raft Raises $7 Grand For Rehab Facility In Keys  

MARATHON A Vietnam vet who spent the last month living on a raft anchored off the Seven Mile Bridge in the lower Keys has returned to dry land.

55-year old Bill Sampsel had hoped to raise $6 million to build a rehab facility in the lower Keys for vets after they receive medical treatment. In the end, he only raised about $7 thousand.

"I thought more people would understand the need for this facility and it disappoints me more people didn't come aboard," Sampsel said. "I still don't think people grasp there is a critical need for facilities to take care of veterans coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan."

Sampsel's biggest benefactor, Key West based Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, donated $5 thousand. The remaining money came from individual contributions. Despite low donations, Sampsel said he's happy with the experience…

He said the commander of the Veteran of Foreign Wars' Florida chapter heard about his 'raft fundraiser' and phoned to pledge future support. Plans are now in place for a June 7 fishing tournament to continue the mission.

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