Man spends seven days in a tower to raise money for ‘7 days for the Troops’

VICKSBURG, Miss. (Vicksburg Daily News)–In 2006, Marine Corps veteran Scott Burns had been looking for a way to help service members when he met a group of kids raising money to buy phone cards to send to troops serving overseas. Scott was moved to help them and did so by building a 20-foot tall tower outside a mall in Tupelo, Mississippi, where he stayed for seven days (168 hours).

Burns turned the campaign into an annual event called ‘7 days for the Troops’ to raise money for disabled veterans and active duty service members. This year, to celebrate the program’s 15th anniversary, Burns has taken the concept on the road and help veterans in different places.

In October, Burns will build his 20-foot tower at the Vicksburg-Tallulah Airport and kick off the seven-day event with a concert by Zack Bridges on October 17. Also during his 168 hours in the tower, the Southern Heritage Air Foundation will hold the annual Warbirds, Wings & Wheels event.

Burns has partnered with Purple Heart Homes to award the funds raised to benefit disabled veterans in this area.

“Anything from building a wheelchair ramp to remodeling an entire house,” Burns said. “One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to benefit local veterans.”

To qualify, veterans must have a service-connected disability, honorable discharge and no felony convictions. Apply online at phhusa.org.