Boone County Habitat for Humanity dedicated Indiana’s first Wounded Warrior home on Sept. 15 in Advance, Ind.
Benefactor Marine Sergeant Jessie James, who suffered a head injury in Iraq after coming into contact with a roadside bomb, has recently been discharged with 100 percent disability. James and his family are now moved into their new home, complete with attached two-car garage, deck, miniature barn and fully equipped wood working shop. More than 150 guests attended the celebration and lunch at the Advance Christian Church with entertainment provided by the Wright Brothers.
“There was not a dry eye,” said Steve Furste, Executive Director of Boone County Habitat for Humanity, said of the dedication.
The Indiana Patriot Guard, a motorcycle group of 31 bikes escorted Sergeant James and his family to begin the celebration. Special guest Indianapolis mayor Greg Ballard then addressed the crowd and personally thanked Sergeant James for his service to his country.
“When all the motorcycles showed up with Sergeant James and his family leading the parade,” added Furste, “it was truly a special moment for all those present.”
At the home, the Marine color guard presented the colors and conducted taps. The dedication also included speeches and donations by area groups that played a key part in the eight-week build. More than 200 volunteers and business partners from both Boone County and the greater Indianapolis area made the build possible.
“We had so many partners who all made this special build possible,” Furste said. “Area churches who provided lunches each day for the volunteers, build partners who proved both materials and labor for plumbing, electrical, HVAC, landscaping and so many other areas of the build. Our volunteers worked through some very brutal weather conditions this past summer but showed up every day to keep us on schedule.”
