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Here’s the Good News: A new engine for ERB Sailor in need

Posted at 11:36 PM, Apr 30, 2013
and last updated 2013-04-30 23:36:04-04

Food stamps, unemployment and possible foreclosure - life after the Navy has been tough for former sailor Michael Pitt, after he was fired by the Enlisted Retention Board.

“Hell, depression, sad, frustrated,” said Pitt of his struggles over the past nine months.

After his story aired on NewsChannel 3 earlier this month, many of you reached out wanting to help--especially since this sailor didn't have a working car to get around town.

“For the time being, I got postponed for a potential job because I can’t go to a follow-up interview,” said Pitts.

One of those people was Paul Turney, the owner of PT Mobile Mechanics.

He volunteered to take a look at Pitt's car, free of charge.

“Definitely seems to be a seized engine,” said Turney. “Yep, there’s the piston, definitely a blown engine, looks like you threw a rod through the engine block.”

Not good news...because a new engine for his 2004 Pontiac Grand Am would be a very expensive and time-consuming project.

Luckily, Paul had a surprise up his sleeve, taking action for this former sailor in need.

“I understand how it is to lose your job. I think you all got the short end of the stick from our government.  I know you really can’t go anywhere without a car these days, much less find a job,” said Turney. “So I am going to get this down to a friend of mine's shop, JB Auto Service, and he is going to swap out your motor for you, at no charge to you.”

The offer left this sailor momentarily speechless.

“I’m happy and excited, and I feel blessed,” said Pitts. “I appreciate it sir, I am greatly indebted to you.”

NewsChannel 3 just had to ask why Turney would spend that much money to help out a person he had never met before?

“Why not? It’s something everyone should try to do for people,” said Turney.

Finally--the day came for work to start, and a tow truck pulled into Pitt’s driveway ready to take his car away.

“I’m excited, that it’s finally going to be fixed,” said Pitts.

The good news, though, didn't end there...NewsChannel 3 had another surprise.

“Paul had come to us and wanted to help you mechanic-wise, and when he figured out that it needed a new engine, he needed a bit of help, so NewsChannel 3 is actually paying for your entire engine, that’s the reason it’s happening, what do you think about that?”

“That’s awesome, I didn’t even know that,” said Pitts. “You certainly took action and got results, it lets me know there are still good people in this world.”

Good people, bringing the good news for this military family in need.

*If you ever need a mechanic and want to give your business to someone who took action and got results for a person in need, call Paul at PT Mobile Mechanics, 757-763-0030.*