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‘I’m going to say a prayer,’ says Navy veteran surprised with Redskins playoff tickets

Posted at 10:59 PM, Jan 10, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-11 02:32:21-05

RICHMOND, Va. -- As the CBS 6 Month of Giving continues into 2016, reporter Melissa Hipolit got the chance to surprise one of the veteransshe met when she delivered cupcakes to McGuire VA Hospitalin December.

Melissa met up with Carl Washington, a visually impaired Navy veteran who lives at McGuire, Sunday morning.

She surprised the huge Redskins fan with tickets to Sunday's game courtesy of Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones' Office.

"You told me they were the light of your life, really," Melissa said. "After that I had the opportunity to get some tickets to today's playoff game from the City of Richmond and I'm surprising you with these tickets today. You're going to the game!"

Carl was stunned by the news.

"Lord..., don't do that to me, baby," he exclaimed. "I'm going to the game? Lord, have mercy... Thank you, baby."

Despite the Skins' loss, Carl, Melissa and Photojournalist Eli Gardiner had a wonderful time at FedEx Field.

“It is quite an experience and I really appreciate it, you know,” Carl said. “I’m going to say a prayer, to show God I am thankful to get here and thankful for the people that cared for me to get me here.”

All year long, the CBS 6 news team will be in the community, helping people through random acts of kindness. We hope those who are helped will be inspired to pay it forward. If you've been inspired to pay it forward, click here to share your story.