Lebanon, Ohio—The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) has provided flooring for its 76th home in support of the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment). The R.I.S.E. program builds mortgage-free, custom, specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans and first responders. The home dedication for U.S. Navy Petty Officer First Class (Ret.) John Kremer took place on March 2 here. Flooring for the project, as well as installation services, were donated by NWFA member Panel Town & Floors.
PO1 Kremer joined the navy in 2003 where he completed explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) school. In 2010, during a deployment in Afghanistan, his metal detector failed while clearing a hilltop of landmines. The resulting explosion caused the loss of his left foot and right leg.
“During his years of service, Petty Officer First Class Kremer cleared approximately 400 IEDs and explosive hazards,” said NWFA president and CEO, Michael Martin. “In recognition, he received two bronze stars, a Combat Action Ribbon, and an Army Commendation Medal. We’re honored to partner with Panel Town & Floors to provide beautiful wood floors for his new home.”
In addition to the 76 homes already completed, NWFA currently is working with its members to source wood flooring for 13 additional R.I.S.E. homes in various stages of planning and construction. Currently, 157 NWFA member companies have donated product, logistics and installation services in locations throughout the United States, with a total value of more than $6.9 million.
To learn more about the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program, contact the NWFA at anita.howard@nwfa.org.