Town of Apple Valley host the building of a new handicap-enabled home for wounded veteran Army specialist Jose Martinez.Apple Valley will team with Homes for Our Troops (HFOT) to build the new home. HFOT is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2004 and builds specifically adapted homes to members of the military who have returned home with life-altering injuries post 9/11.
The “Community Kick-off” ceremony at the James. A Woody Community Center marks the beginning of community involved endeavor to build Martinez a new home, adaptive to his specific needs. In 2012, Martinez lost both his legs, his right arm and had a partial amputation of his left hand as a result from stepping on an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan.
Katelyn Donavan, Community Outreach organizer for HFOT, hosted the event which featured special recognition certificates given by elected members of the community such as Assemblyman Jay Obernolte, County Supervisor Robert Lovingood, and a representative for eighth district representative Paul Cook. Other servicemen, Apple Valley firefighters and San Bernardino County Sheriff's deputies were also in attendance.
“Programs like this are so vital, so necessary and so appreciated by our community,” Obernolte said. He presented a certificate of recognition on behalf of the state legislature. He also encouraged members of the community to put forth man hours to help build the house.
“But that doesn’t stop here,” Obernolte said. “We need to support (HFOT) financially and with labor. I am looking forward to working with them to build, not just this one home but other homes thanks to the work you’re doing in the community.”
At the time of Saturday's event, HFOT still needed materials donated, contractors and volunteers.
"This won’t be down without the engagement of everyone," Obernolte said. "Homes for (Our) Troops is the embodiment of patriotism. We're thankful for those who are willing to give it all, Martinez almost did."
A friend of Martinez, Army Captain Philipe Vasquez was also emotional while speaking about the gift of the custom home.
“If I get emotional forgive me,” Vasquez said. “(The military) is a big-tight brotherhood no matter what. It is an honor for all of us to be here. Supporting your troops is something we do every day. Jose helped someone else out there without thinking.”
In 11 years, Homes for Our Troops has built and delivered 190 new homes to severely disabled veterans
“If there’s any road blocks or any challenges,” Lovingood said. “I want you to call us.”
Lovingood broke the mood joking about his military service in comparison to Martinez.
“I have to apologize, I was Air Force,” Lovingood said “I didn’t do the dirty work, I was protected by a million dollar aircraft.”
The “kick-off” ceremony was the first of three events. The next two scheduled in the near future are a volunteer day and the Key Event where the house key will be given to Martinez upon completion of the home.
Stanton also pointed out that the couple chose Apple Valley as their home as Martinez’s wife, Liseth is a native of the town.
There’s a love and a pride and it’s bubbling inside of me. Looking at you and trying to imagine what you’ve been through. It’s impossible. America is forever in your debt.”
Shelly Yarborough, a representative of HFOT, said the new house will have 88 modifications to support physical and visual impairments. The house will feature a therapy tub and a safe room. There is also a safe alarm button and backup generators.
“These kinds of upgrades are not luxuries,” Yarborough said. “They are exactly what these guys need in their life to move forward. They are not constructed as a regular home, they need extra tender loving care.”
The event concluded with the retiring of the colors and Martinez giving a heartfelt and humble thanks to everyone in attendance.
“This experience is amazing and overwhelming,” Martinez said. “I have never had anything like this done for me. I don’t feel like a hero. But it’s great.”
For more information on volunteering or donating to help HFOT veterans get one step closer to home visit HFOTUSE.ORG or call 866-7-TROOPS.