SOC2 - Larry Hinkle ”1SG Smith & Stalking Dolphins”

A Marine, Larry has answered the cries of help with the world’s finest force in readiness... The United States Marine Corps. He was stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA and he was attached to 3rd AABN (3rd Amphibian Assault Battalion.) While in the Marine Corps (2000-2004), Larry deployed three times. First of which, he was assigned to a security detail for the U.S.S. Cole (hours after it was bombed in the Gulf of Aiden, near Yemen. On his second deployment, he was part of the Amphibious Ready Group that provided an immediate presence in the Pakistan/Afghanistan Region of the world, post 911. His final deployment was to Iraq in 2003, for the initial invasion. Larry has dealt with the issues (first hand) that arise when transitioning from military service and war, back into society. He also brings 10+ years of corporate sales / Project Management experience to aid in securing corporate partnerships/funding.

2016 “THE HUMP”: Hinkle started his journey on April 3rd from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and will complete his mission when he steps onto 3rd AABN, Camp Pendleton, California, where he was stationed as a United States Marine from 2000-2004.
Larry walked more than 2,600 miles across America to bring awareness and attention to our Nation’s Veterans and First Responders. Throughout the “The Hump”, he stopped by VA facilities, Veteran State Nursing Homes, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), police and sheriff’s departments, fire stations and Salvation Army locations to connect with veterans/ first responders and share their stories. His mission fed over 1,000 veterans and first responders.

2017 “THE LONE STAR HUMP”: He kicked off on April 3rd in Dallas and he plans on performing the same type of feat with what he’s calling “The Lone Star Hump.” It will consist of the same type of events, just less time spent on the walk. Larry will walk an average of 10 miles on the days he walks to the police, sheriff and fire departments.

Hinkle hopes to create awareness about the problems veterans face every day, especially the disabled. He will also be providing gift cards to the first responders and let them know what their service means to the community as he walks throughout communities each week.
“It took me 9 years to get my situation with the VA figured out. I know what a trying process that was and how mentally exhausting that was at times. Anything that I can do to help, is what I am looking to accomplish,” he said.
For additional information about The Lone Star Hump, please visit http://www.thehump.org.