'The guys on the space station can probably see it'
BRIAN WALKER/Press Vietnam veteran Earl “Bud” Greer and his wife, Carlyn, stand in front of their home in the Prairie Meadows subdivision in Post Falls on Wednesday night after it was decorated by Christmas Decor by Senske for free. The program thanks veterans for their service. Greer served in the Army for 27 years and earned 14 personal honors, including three Purple Hearts and the Distinguished Service Cross.
By BRIAN WALKER
Staff Writer
POST FALLS — Vietnam veteran Earl "Bud" Greer and his wife, Carlyn, were overwhelmed on Wednesday at the army of workers who pulled up to their Post Falls home to brighten their Christmas.
Christmas Decor by Senske decorated the outside of the couple's home in the Prairie Meadows subdivision for free to thank Bud for his service.
"When about 20 guys in 10 trucks showed up it was unbelievable," Bud said. "Carlyn looked out and said, 'You're not going to believe this. Look at these people.' It's hard to put into words, but I'm totally thankful."
About four hours later, the Greer home was decked out to the hilt, complete with an automatic timer to turn on the lights at 4 p.m. and a guarantee the elves will be back to take the lights down after the holiday season.
"The guys on the space station can probably see it," Bud said. "They just said, 'Sit back and relax. We'll put everything in.'"
Greer said he would have only put up a limited number of lights.
"We're on the conservative side — a few on the door and a few on the porch," he said.
Greer is used to giving, so being on the receiving end was uncomfortable at first.
The person who nominated Greer wanted to remain anonymous, but wants him to feel support that he did not receive when he returned from the Vietnam War. He earned 14 personal honors while serving in the Army, including three Purple Heart awards for being injured, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Bronze Star and three Army Commendation Medals.
Greer served a total of 27 years in the Army, working his way up to a colonel. He has quietly served others since his retirement.
Greer still has shrapnel in his leg from when his tank was hit by the VietCong.
The decorating deed was especially meaningful to Greer since Christmas is so special to him.
"Christmas is a time to remember the birth of Christ," he said softly, adding that he wasn't able to be home for Christmas for several years due to his military service. "It's really amazing how the business community comes forward for veterans."
Brandon Stephens, president of Christmas Decor, said it's a joy to give back to those who have given so much.
"Even after 16 years of surprising deserving families, each reveal moment is as special and heartwarming as the last," Stephens said.