Cutline BJsFamily: Sergeant Billy James “BJ” Shepperson family prepares to cut the ribbon to “BJs Cabin” Brandie Collins Lusk Herald

Cutline BJsCabin: 

Cutline Motorcycle: The Combat Veteran Motorcycle Association, Chapter 36-1, arrived to help celebrate the dedication of “BJs Cabin” on April 26. Many of the veterans volunteered their time to build the cabin. Brandie Collins Lusk Herald

NIOBRARA COUNTY - On April 26, Operation Remount honored Marine sniper Sergeant Billy James “BJ” Shepperson who passed away on December 27, 2018. In tribute to the departed serviceman, Karen and Kelly Alexander and many dedicated volunteers built “BJs Cabin” for veterans to stay while undergoing therapy involving wild mustangs.

“This cabin is more than just a building,” Karen Alexander said. “It is a symbol of dedication, of the strength and courage of all of those who have committed themselves to defend our country.”

Shepperson graduated from the Marine Corps Scout-Sniper School and was deployed three times over seas which included two combat tours to Iraq. Shepperson was a decorated war veteran, among his many honors and service medals was the Combat Action Ribbon, Humanitarian Service Medal and the Purple Heart.

Volunteers built BJs Cabin and it will be one place veterans who participate in the Operation Remount program will be able to stay through a six week program. Within BJs Cabin a picture is hung of Shepperson and there are a few photos from Shepperson’s life which entails some of his story as a sniper. There is also a HOG (Hunter of Gunmen) tooth which hangs next to Shepperson’s photo. A HOG tooth is a 30-calliber bullet symbolizing the achievement and beginning of a Marine’s career as a trained sniper.

BJs Cabin was partially funded by money left from Shepperson’s fathers estate which was gifted to help build the cabin. During the ceremony Shepperson’s brother, Baxter Shepperson, gave a dedication and how much BJs Cabin meant to him and his family. 

“I think this is something that Billy would love because he always had a passion for the outdoors and horses,” said Baxter Shepperson. “We really appreciate what has been done here and thank you all.”

The Combat Veteran Motorcycle Association, Chapter 36-1 came to the ceremony, many who had volunteered their time to build BJs Cabin, this also included veterans from the surrounding area who helped as well. The Alexanders presented a certificate of thanks to the Combat Veteran Motorcycle Chapter, 36-1. The ladies from the Lake Guernsey VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) Auxiliary Post 4471 also attended the ceremony and brought with them a donation for Operation Remount.

During the ceremony all of the board members and volunteers were thanked by Karen Alexander for their hard work and dedication to Operation Remount.

“First and foremost a heartfelt thank you to Kelly Alexander,” said Karen Alexander. “He is the founder of this wonderful program. His vision and dedication have been the driving force behind this mission and we are all incredibly grateful for his leadership and passion.”

Karen Alexander thanked the Combat Veteran Motorcycle Association, Chapter 36-1 for all of their help and dedication with spending over 750 hours building BJs Cabin. There were 18 veterans out of 20 volunteered their time and labor. The Alexanders presented Jerry “Headache” Dixon with a plaque in recognition for sharing his invaluable expertise with the construction and design of the building BJs Cabin.

“Jerry’s leadership and dedication inspired other members to give their best, fostering strong sense of comradery and purpose among the volunteers,” said Karen Alexander. “His commitment to honoring veterans was evident in every nail hammered in every door placed.”

Patrick Sheehan, the military liaison for Senator John Barrasso, was sent to present a letter to Kelly Alexander on behalf of Sen. Barrasso. The letter was read by Sheehan from Sen. Barrasso. 

“Operation Remount is a remarkable veteran led organization. A sincere thank you to all of the veterans and all the volunteers who helped with their efforts for heroes to have a place to heal their wounds,” said Sheehan.

The family of Shepperson cut the ribbon to BJs Cabin and were the first ones to tour the cabin. After the ceremony volunteers, friends, veterans and visitors were able to take a look as well. All were welcome to roam the grounds and see firsthand what the Alexanders do and visit about Operation Remount.

“The cabin serves as a space to remember BJ and support veterans, particularly those facing invisible wounds,” said Karen Alexander.

For more information about Operation Remount please visit www.operationremount.org.