Build Brigade to Construct New Home for Injured Vet

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In 2003 SSG Heath Calhoun lost both his legs when a rocket-propelled grenade hit his Humvee while serving in Iraq. After this tragedy, his life would be changed forever and his family’s concerns would shift from the worries of daily life to his full recovery.

The Build Brigade, a non-profit organization that builds new homes for disabled veterans, is stepping in to ease the minds of Calhoun and his family. From April 23rd through the 25th the Brigade is coming to Clarksville to construct the veteran a brand new home in the neighborhood of his choice.

Calhoun was chosen as a recipient of the Build Brigade’s mission because he is an injured veteran who, despite the loss of both his limbs, has overcome great obstacles and has an incredible story to tell, according to Vicki Thomas, the group’s public affairs officer.

"Not only is he an injured veteran, but he is now a new role model in excellence," said Thomas, "he recently participated in the Paralympics in skiing. He excels in everything he does in addition to being a wonderful family man."

The home will be completely free to Calhoun. Even when the keys are handed over to the veteran, there will be no mortgage payments in the future.

Calhoun’s new house will be specially adapted for the injured vet with a barrier free design, allowing him to move freely and comfortably in his own home.

"We want to give this home to Calhoun to show our appreciation of the sacrifice he made for his country and to help him regain the freedom and independence he fought for us to have," said Thomas.

Beginning on April 23rd volunteer crews will work diligently for three days to erect the house, starting out with only a bare foundation on the first day.

The construction will operate solely from both professional volunteers certified to build and from non-professionals in the surrounding community. Hundreds of volunteers will unite to complete the home for this special cause.

As the beginning of the project is soon approaching, volunteers are desperately needed to assist in both construction and non-construction related aspects. The community can participate by bringing water, coolers, ice, baked goods, paper towels, hand sanitizer, and trash bags to the site, as all these items are greatly needed.

Also still in immediate need for the Build Brigade are framing crews, a siding crew, food coordination, and tent rentals.

These are just a few of the ways you can contribute. If you would like more ideas or want to contribute your own, please contact Amber Hewes at ahewes@homesforourtroops.org or call 508-823-3300.

If you are a professional trade looking to participate please contact Rob O’Neill, Assistant Construction Manager, at RONeill@homesforourtroops.org.

The site of the new home is 0 Walter Road off Highway 12 towards Cheatham County.

To sign up to help, registration tables will be at the build site. Your assistance is needed to make this a success, so get involved and make a difference.