Injured vets hit jackpot with Barker gift

BETHESDA, Md., Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Former TV host Bob Barker came on down to Bethesda, Md., to donate $3 million to a medical center for military personnel suffering traumatic brain injuries.

The donation by the former "Price is Right" host brought the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund to its $60 million goal to build the National Intrepid Center for Excellence next to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the Armed Forces Press Service wrote.

The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund will pay to build the center and equip it with cutting-edge medical equipment for traumatic brain injury research, diagnosis and treatment, Bill White, president of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, said Wednesday.

"This amazing gift puts us over the top," White said when announcing Barker's donation. "Thousands of Americans have given to this important effort, and Bob Barker has today (Wednesday) stepped up to the task. We are immensely grateful for his wonderful generosity and his support for our nation's servicemen and women."

Barker, a naval pilot during World War II, said his donation was a way to give back to those who serve or have served in the military.

"I am very happy to do whatever I can to support the brave men and women who have given so much in service to our nation," he said. "They have given so much for us. All Americans owe them a debt of gratitude for their tremendous service and sacrifice."