Notes of Love Add Special Touch to Veteran’s New Home
Operation Finally Home and Garvey Homes, along with the Dallas Builders Association, the City of Irving and NEC, honored U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Samasoni Lelea and his family March 20, with a special Notes of Love event at the Lelea family’s new home that is currently under construction in Irving.
Lelea is a two-time Purple Heart recipient who served his country for 20-plus years including three active duty deployments to Iraq.
After the home is framed in and prior to drywall being installed, members of the community, along with individuals who have been a part of the build, gathered at the build site in Irving, where they wrote inspirational phrases, scripture and notes of appreciation on bare studs and headers. Based on the response from the previously selected families, this event is very special to the veterans, as they know their house is wrapped in love and support.
The family currently lives in Alaska and were unable to travel to the event, but professional photographer Stephen Goodgame was able to capture photos of the messages and attendees. The City of Irving filmed much of the event and had a special viewing with the Lelea on a video chat.
A home dedication ceremony will be held when the house is completed and the keys are turned over to the Lelea family. Stay tuned for announcements through Association communications.
In the meantime, the Association is accepting material, services and monetary donations for Project #9.
If you are interested in donating to this project, please contact Sheena Beaver at sheena.beaver@dallasbuilders.com or 214-615-3881.
