The Gift of a Home

In a heartwarming display of gratitude and support, Army veteran Sergeant Joshua Hargis and his family have been presented with a mortgage-free home, thanks to the collaborative efforts of LP Building Solutions and the esteemed Gary Sinise Foundation. On Tuesday, in a ceremony that underscored community support for veterans, Hargis received a custom-built home designed specifically to meet his mobility needs.

Sergeant Joshua Hargis: A Hero’s Journey

Retired U.S. Army Sergeant Joshua Hargis is not just another veteran; he is a decorated Army Ranger and K9 handler who has demonstrated extraordinary valor during his service. Serving four tours in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom, Hargis endured life-altering injuries during his final deployment in 2013. On that fateful night, while on a mission as a K9 handler with his dog, Jany, Hargis and his unit encountered concealed explosive devices. The explosion resulted in catastrophic injuries that changed the course of his life, claiming both of his legs and the life of his K9 companion.

The Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. Program

The construction of Hargis’s new home is part of the Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) program. Established to provide specially adapted homes for severely wounded veterans, R.I.S.E. aims to create living spaces that promote independence and support rehabilitation.

The Hargis family’s new residence, located in Nashville, TN, reflects these principles, ensuring accessibility and comfort. Financial backing and building materials were generously supplied by LP Building Solutions, showcasing the power of corporate social responsibility in aiding those who served their country.

LP Building Solutions: A Foundation of Support

LP Building Solutions has made a significant impact through its charitable efforts, particularly in partnership with the Gary Sinise Foundation. Since their collaboration began in 2022, LP has donated crucial materials, including trim and siding, for the construction of eight custom homes for veterans across the nation.

Jim Ravella, Executive Vice President of the Gary Sinise Foundation, expressed his admiration for LP Building Solutions, saying, “We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with LP and the LP Foundation for their commitment to honoring veterans like Sergeant Hargis, who risk their lives defending our freedoms.” This sentiment echoed throughout the ceremony, reinforcing the collective mission to support those who have served.

A Personal Touch in Design

Craig Sichling, Vice President of Specialty Sales & Marketing at LP, shared the deep emotional impact that working on the Hargis family home had on the team involved. “This experience has been powerful and moving,” said Sichling, emphasizing the significance of creating a ‘forever home’ designed with careful consideration for Sergeant Hargis’s unique needs as a double amputee. The custom features incorporated into the home are vital in providing the necessary support for Hargis as he navigates life post-injury.

Reflecting on Sacrifice

In a statement released by the Gary Sinise Foundation, Hargis reflected on the harrowing events of October 5, 2013. He remembered the mission that turned tragic, where his brave actions alongside his K9 partner were met with unimaginable harm. The casualties included loss of life, with four members of his team killed and Hargis suffering devastating injuries.

As Hargis begins to settle into his new home, he acknowledges the profound healing that comes with such support, not only from foundations but also from the community at large.

Championing Veterans’ Needs

The initiative not only provides a home for wounded veterans but also aligns closely with LP Building Solutions’ commitment to supporting veterans and addressing the housing crisis facing many in the United States. Currently, veterans represent approximately 7% of the U.S. population, while constituting about 13% of the homeless demographic, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sichling noted, “It matches two objectives for us: helping address the housing crisis, especially for veterans returning wounded, and contributing to building a better world with sustainable housing.” This dual focus on community contribution and veteran support exemplifies LP Building Solutions’ core values.

Looking Ahead

As the Hargis family embarks on this new chapter in their lives, the support from both LP Building Solutions and the Gary Sinise Foundation exemplifies the spirit of gratitude that the nation holds for its veterans. The story of Sergeant Hargis serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel and the critical importance of community support and engagement.

The new home is more than just a physical structure; it represents hope, independence, and a renewed sense of belonging. Organizations like the Gary Sinise Foundation and LP Building Solutions continue to play vital roles in easing the challenges faced by veterans and their families, helping to build bridges between service and community support.

For more stories dedicated to honoring our nation’s heroes and the impactful work of organizations like the Gary Sinise Foundation, follow the latest updates through the Fox News app, designed to keep you informed.