Warsaw native U.S. Army SSG Justin Raymer and his family thought they were simply attending Craig Morgan’s “American Stories” concert Nov. 19 at the Wagon Wheel Theatre, but they were in store for the surprise of their lives.
Raymer’s father, Mike, the assistant Fire Chief for the Winona Lake Fire Department told Justin that Morgan was looking for veterans to attend the concert. When Morgan, an Army veteran himself, finished his third song of the night, he invited Justin and Kaci to the stage where they were surprised with the news that they were receiving a mortgage-free home.
“I have been gone for 15 years,” Raymer said. “It means a lot to finally come home and bring our entire family together.”
Operation FINALLY HOME, R.W. Kidd and the Builders and the Builders Association of Kosciusko Fulton Counties have teamed to build the home for the Raymer family.
“We are so grateful for this unique opportunity to honor and give back to U.S. Army SSG Raymer and his family and we look forward to welcoming them home next September,” said Trisha Steger, Executive Officer, Builders Association of Kosciusko Fulton Counties.
Operation FINALLY HOME Executive Director Rusty Carroll added, “We are so honored to partner with R.W. Kidd and the Builders Association of Kosciusko Fulton Counties to bring Justin and his family ‘home’ to Warsaw. “Justin and Kaci want to raise their children near family and we are blessed to be able to make that dream come true for this deserving veteran.”
To make a 100 percent donation to the Justin Raymer project, text “WARSAW” TO 41444. And, if you would like to donate materials or if you are an experienced labor volunteer, please contact the Builders Association of Kosciusko and Fulton Counties at (574) 267-6125
Photo Courtesy of Monarch Publicity