Organizations Join Forces To Build Lovettsville Home For Wounded Vet

Close to 100 people gathered near Lovettsville Wednesday morning to witness U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Ronny Porta in breaking ground at the future site of his custom home provided by the Building for Americas Bravest program.

While serving in Iraq in May 2007, two years after enlisting in the Marine Corps, Porta, 27, sustained major injuries when his vehicle was hit by an IED. He lost his right arm and two fingers on his left hand. Severe burns covered 35 percent of his body.

Through the program, a joint initiative of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers and the Gary Sinise foundations, Porta and his family will receive a brand new Smart Home equipped with the most advanced technology designed to help him live independently.

The energy efficient home comes completely furnished and will be tailored to fit Portas individual needs. Every room will have fully accessible features, such as movable countertops and cabinetry that can be electronically operated by an iPad or smartphone.

The house will be just under 3,000 square feet. Construction costs alone may reach the half a million range.

John Hodge, vice president of operations for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, said the builders go the extra mile to design the homes that do not look as if a disabled person lives there.

Several people involved with the project participated in the groundbreaking ceremony, which also was attended by State Sen. Dick Black (R-13) and Del. Dave LaRock (R-33).

On behalf of the state of Virginia, and as a member of the Marine Corps League myself, Id like to thank [Ronny] for everything hes done for us, Black said. This was his sacrifice and Im really pleased that people can give back.

Actor and foundation founder Gary Sinise was not able to attend but sent a message for Porta that Hodge read aloud. It is the Gary Sinise Foundations true privilege to help Ronny reclaim his independence and freedom, the very things that he fought to protect for us. I only wish I could be there today to thank you personally Ronny. It is our hope that his home represents in some small way the sincere gratitude that we feel.

An elated Porta, who has undergone more than 100 surgeries, thanked the crowd and shared his story of struggling to adapt to life after the incident.

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Organizations Join Forces To Build Lovettsville Home For Wounded Vet