[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 28 (Tuesday, February 13, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E171-E172]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING HOMES FOR OUR TROOPS OF TAUNTON, MA

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. JOSEPH P. KENNEDY III

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 13, 2018

  Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Homes for Our 
Troops, a nonprofit headquartered in Taunton, Massachusetts where I am 
proud to represent.
   Since 2004, Homes for Our Troops has built accessible homes for 
veterans who require adapted housing to accommodate for the 
difficulties of the severe injuries they have sustained in service. 
Overseen by a board of civilian specialists and retired military 
personnel, nearly 90 cents of every dollar spent has gone directly to 
housing projects and services, helping Homes for Our Troops become one 
of the top-rated military and veterans' charities in the country by 
watch dog groups Charity Navigator and Charity Watch.
   This past Saturday, Homes for Our Troops celebrated the completion 
of their 250th home

[[Page E172]]

in Temecula, California, built specifically for Sergeant Cristian 
Valle, a husband and father of four who was part of the first wave of 
U.S. troops to enter Iraq in 2003. In October 2005, Sergeant Valle 
suffered a life-altering injury when an enemy grenade left him without 
the use of his legs. After returning to the United States, Sergeant 
Valle faced challenges adjusting to his new life, but through the 
services of Homes for Our Troops, he and his family will receive a new 
home specially adapted to his needs to help him focus on recovery and 
restore independence and stability to his life.
   While our veterans face many challenges, none should have to endure 
returning from service to a home that is inaccessible to them. I join 
Governor Baker of Massachusetts in bringing attention to this important 
organization, and call on the House to honor Homes for Our Troops and 
the valuable work they do serving those who have sacrificed so bravely 
so that we may enjoy a life of peace in the United States.

                          ____________________