By: Christian Winston
Stepping into a newly built home puts a smile on any homeowner’s face. It’s an exciting experience to step across the threshold and know you are home.
Sergeant Monte Bernardo needed a place to call home. Operation FINALLY HOME in partnership with King Oaks subdivision stepped up to the plate to design and build a custom home in Aggieland for the wounded veteran. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on February 22.
Kristi Robinson, marketing director for King Oaks subdivision, says, “the home is coming along great.” Randall Pitcock of Pitcock and Croix Custom Homes is the builder in charge of the home.
On July 4, 2012, Bernardo’s life took a drastic change. While serving his second tour in Afghanistan, Bernardo was caught in an IED blast. From the aftermath of the explosion, he lost both his legs and his left hand. Bernardo was transported to Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, where he still remains, for surgeries and recovery.
Robinson is excited to see this home being built for Bernardo. “The base of anyone’s life as you’re moving forward is a home. Once you have that, everything else has its place. For him to have that stability and home is the biggest part of this whole thing,” says Robinson.
While building is underway, King Oaks is still looking for donations for the new member of the community. Housing, construction or cash donations are welcome and any sized donations are needed and greatly appreciated.
The Veteran Fishing Derby, a fundraiser for Operation Finally Home, will be held on March 23 at King Oaks Subdivision. Professional angler Jimmy Houston will be available to answer questions and provide fishing tips. Kids and families are welcome. Ticket proceeds and donations will go towards Bernardo’s new home and Operation Finally Home. Registration is online at www.aggielandveteran.com
There is also a fundraiser currently underway to win a Johnny Manziel autographed Aggie football helmet. The fundraiser lasts through May 8, 2013, and all proceeds will go towards Bernardo’s home. Anyone interested in donating can do so through Facebook at http://on.fb.me/YUe24j.
For more information about Operation Finally Home, King Oaks Subdivision, Sergeant Bernardo and ongoing fundraisers, visit www.aggielandveteran.com.
