Surprise! Three Military Families Get Mortgage-Free Homes
Bank of America and Operation Homefront presented the keys for mortgage-free homes to three military families on Wednesday, October 3. Retired U.S. Army Sergeant Eddy Dodson, retired U.S. Army Specialist Charles Henry, retired U.S. Army Corporal Robbie Cadena, and their families were surprised with the homes during a ceremony at the San Antonio Operation Homefront Village, through the Homes on the Homefront program. Homes on the Homefront is a nationwide program that awards mortgage-free homes to veterans, service members, and their families.
The families arrived at the Village Wednesday thinking they were coming to support an event highlighting the partnership between Bank of America and Operation Homefront, but realized that they were part of something bigger when they were called up in front of a crowd of over 50 onlookers.
When the home donations to the families were announced, the excitement and joy was overwhelming for the families.
“I can’t express how thankful I am of Operation Homefront and Bank of America for everything they have done for my family,” said Cadena, a current resident of the Village and new home recipient. “It was a tremendous blessing and we are thrilled for the opportunity to grow as a family in our new home.”
Kenny Wilson, Austin and San Antonio Market President, Bank of America; Jim Knotts, President and CEO of Operation Homefront; and other representatives from both organizations were on hand for the event, as well as numerous active duty service members, local government officials, and other military families. “Bank of America has a strong commitment to supporting those who serve our country, as well as helping create strong and vibrant neighborhoods,” said Wilson. “Through our partnerships with organizations like Operation Homefront, we’re committed to revitalizing neighborhoods while honoring our service members and their families and providing assistance as they transition back into civilian life.”
“Operation Homefront is thrilled to work with Bank of America to match three great military families with homes in San Antonio,” said Knotts. “San Antonio provides great support for wounded warriors and military families through medical care and other support, which is a large reason that we are headquartered here. While the families are excited, it is San Antonio that is the major beneficiary as these three wonderful families will be permanent residents of the city.”
Veterans and military families can apply for the Homes on the Homefront program by logging on to
www.OperationHomefront.net/HomesOnTheHomefront