Welcoming a Hero to our Neighborhood

This morning was quite special to our neighborhood.  Homes for Our Troop’s is building a house for a Missouri veteran that was seriously injured while patrolling the streets of Baghdad in 2009.

This morning was the opening “Brigade Parade”.  The streets were lined with supporters of all kinds; military, political officials, friends, family and neighbors. All were there to welcome SSG Robert Canine and his family to what will soon be their new home. Over the next few days, volunteer craftsmen will build the outside structure of their home, in what I’m sure will be Extreme Makeover style.

The ceremony was extremely emotional and inspiring. After the politicians had their say about local volunteerism and patriotism, Robert’s commanding officer introduced him to all of us. Here’s just a piece of the heart felt introduction.
 
I was so glad we decided to let the kids stay home from school this morning to see it all unfold. Not only is it always important for them to understand the sacrifice our military families make for us every day for our protection and freedoms, but the Canine’s will be truly be our neighbors.  We can see the what will be the front of their house from our kitchen window.

What a triumphant and exhilarating feeling this must have been for him and his family.  It ceratainly was exciting for us to watch and be there to cheer them on.

Later in the morning, after we got the kids off to school, we got to meet Robert and his wife, Jennifer.  They are the sincerely the nicest people. I’m so happy for them and I am so very PROUD to call them our neighbors.

They have a slew of volunteers lined up, but I’m sure we’ll all be over their doing what we can and being neighborly. 🙂

Here’s a link to Robert telling his story at Homes for Our Troops. (Warning: I’ve watched this several times and can’t help but getting emotional each time.)

Thank you Robert, Jennifer and all of our military families. We love you and appreciate all that you sacrifice for our liberties and service to our country.