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7 Everyday Hero

Nov. 12, 2004: Veteran Repairs Glasses For VA Patients

Frank Montijo Served In U.S. Navy, Now Serves At Denver's Veteran Hospital

When you're in the hospital, it's nice to have a visitor. But it's even nicer when that guest can fix things.

Frank Montijo had served in the Navy and now serves his community by repairing veterans' glasses for free.

Frank Montijo visits the Denver Veterans Affairs Medical Center every Monday, just to adjust and repair veteran's eyeglasses. Frank relates well to the veterans. He served in the Navy during the Korean War.

And having worked as an optician for 49 years, he knows a thing or two about eyeglasses.

But what the veterans really like is Frank's fee.

"I charge them a handshake and a smile," Frank said.

In the last five years he spends at least six hours a week repairing glasses. Frank helped more than 2,600 patients last year alone and every one of them was appreciative.

"I've had some guys cry," Frank said.

"He always treats me good," one veteran said.

"Every week! Every week he comes in! No matter what room or wherever you're at, he's right there checking your glasses," said Ramon Segura, who is retired from the U.S. Army.

"My slowest day has been 24 patients. And my busiest day has been 73 in six and a half hours," Frank said. "I figure who wants to be in the hospital any day of the year? So if I can make a guy smile, I will."

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