Homes For Our Troops (HFOT), a national non-profit organization, announced on Saturday its plans to construct a specially adapted home for Marine Corporal Raymond Hennagir III.
Hennagir, who sustained life-altering injuries while serving in Iraq, was introduced to the Cedar Hill community during the organization’s Community Kickoff event.
The June 24 gathering took place at the First United Methodist Church on 128 North Roberts Rd. in Cedar Hill, where Hennagir received a warm, friendly Texas welcome to the neighborhood.
“It is support like this that truly shows that the American people have not forgotten our wounded servicemen and women,” Hennagir told The Dallas Express.
Hennagir’s life was forever changed on June 16, 2007, when he was severely injured by an improvised explosive device during his second deployment in Zaidon, Iraq.
The blast resulted in the loss of both his legs and several fingers on his left hand.
Despite enduring more than 50 surgeries and having to learn how to walk on prosthetics, Raymond’s determination and resilience have been unwavering.
The specially adapted home being constructed for Hennagir will be adjusted in 40 major ways to enhance his mobility and independence.
These adaptations include widened doorways for wheelchair access, a roll-in shower, and kitchen amenities with pull-down shelving and lowered countertops.
Such features aim to address the challenges faced by Hennagir in a traditional home like navigating narrow hallways and thresholds and reaching high cabinets.
Since its establishment in 2004, HFOT has built 359 homes for injured veterans across the U.S. HFOT has built more homes in Texas (18) than any other state.
The organization relies on the generosity of donors, supporters, and corporate partners to fund the construction of each veteran’s home. Community members are encouraged to make donations or organize fundraisers to support this noble cause.
The Community Kickoff event marked the beginning of the construction process and served as a meaningful opportunity for the community to come together and show their support for a man who has given so much for his country.