Virgil: The Veteran Craftsman
Meet Virgil Barthelemy Jr., an Army veteran with a heart of gold and a knack for crafting walking sticks and canes for his fellow vets. If you were at our recent Stand Down for Veterans, you would have noticed him staged at the front entrance, smiling, and offering a walking stick to every Veteran.
“I’ve crafted 1,569 sticks, with over 1,300 of them donated to veterans. Today, I gave away 85,” shares Virgil.
Approximately thirteen years ago, he was out camping with friends and thought he would venture out into the woods to find a walking stick, and that’s how the idea started. He carefully picks, trims, and cures these sticks for a good 1 to 2 years before turning them into stunning walking aids.
“I use a little pocket handsaw and take a walk through the woods. I cut my sticks down and then tie them to rope and pull them back once I have what I want,” adds Virgil.
Virgil’s bond with the veteran community runs deep. He served in the Army from 1968 to 1970 during the Vietnam War as a heavy equipment operator. Beyond his craft, he actively connects with organizations like the VA and the DAV to support and collaborate on initiatives.
Besides making walking sticks, Virgil dabbles in various woodcrafts, often using refurbished wood to create new items. Although he hasn’t formally taught his craft, a senior citizen center in Marion has approached him to share his skills soon.
“I put them in a barrel in the shop and I let them curate for up to two years. Then I begin working with it until they are done. I never know what it’s going to be.” – Virgil Barthelemy Jr., US Army Veteran
Virgil’s story is a reminder of the power of dedication and the impact one person can have on a community. His work not only provides physical support to veterans but also stands as a symbol of gratitude and respect for their service.