Keys to new home given to Marine severely wounded in combat

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. How does a grateful nation compensate a U.S. Marine who has lost both legs in combat? How does a community properly thank a hometown hero who has made such a profound and life-changing sacrifice?

The answer is, no one knows for sure. But that uncertainty doesn't stop them from trying.

On Friday, on the occasion of the nation's 238th birthday, the keys to a new home built entirely from donations of cash, labor, materials and gratitude were handed over to retired Marine Lance Cpl. Jeremiah Thein, his wife, Ashley, and their two young children.

Simply put, it was Bakersfield's way of saying thank you.

"It's a testament to how we feel as Americans," said Jim Ward, who, along with business partner Mike Alsup, were the general contractors for the project through their company, Northwest Builders.

"We are unable to make Jeremiah physically whole again," Ward said.

But through the gift of a beautiful new home designed specifically to help Thein with the many challenges that lie ahead Ward and scores of others who were involved in the effort hope the house will provide the family with comfort, security and a place for each member of the family to grow and be healthy, happy and productive.

Service to his country

Like hundreds of students who were part of Bakersfield High School's class of 2009, Jeremiah Thein wore a blue cap and gown during commencement ceremonies held in the spring of that year.

Before the year was done, he would change from Driller blue to the desert-camouflage uniform of a U.S. Marine.

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Keys to new home given to Marine severely wounded in combat