Perry Homes modified an existing floorplan to fit the needs of U.S. Marine Cpl. Paul Gardner as part of the Wounded Hero Home Program.

Perry Homes recently helped make one family’s dream of a new home become a reality.

As part of the Rotary Club of Houston’s Wounded Hero Home Program, Perry Homes built a modified four-bedroom, three-bath home in the Riverstone subdivision for Paul Gardner, a U.S. Marine corporal injured in Iraq. Perry, along with the community’s developer, also offered a sizable contribution to offset the cost of the home.

"We were honored to have been asked to take part in such a special event honoring the commitment of our military troops,” said Gary Lairdon, Perry Homes Division President.  “Corporal Gardner took up arms and traveled around the world to engage the enemy so that most of us would not have to do so. Historically, reverence for our heroes has been the mortar that binds us together as nation and a people. As a company we consider ourselves fortunate to have had a time, a place, and the ability to give personal thanks to Corporal Gardner for the sacrifices he has made."

The Wounded Hero Home Program is designed to provide new homes for veterans injured in Iraq or Afghanistan. According to information on the Rotary Club of Houston’s web site, Gardner was shot and paralyzed while his unit was searching neighborhoods near Baghdad.

Perry Homes modified an existing plan to fit Gardner’s needs, including exterior features such as sloped ramps and rollover thresholds at all entrances and a 5-foot sidewalk around the home to provide full access to the front and back yards. Interior modifications include wider, 3-foot doorways, a roll-in shower and lowered custom kitchen cabinets. Plus, flooring throughout the home is ceramic tile or hardwood so Gardner can maneuver his wheelchair easily.

For more information about the Wounded Hero Home Program, visit www.rotaryhouston.org.