Severely Wounded Soldier To Move Into New Tampa House Saturday

Posted Nov 16, 2011 by HOWARD ALTMAN

Updated Nov 19, 2011 at 11:09 PM

When last I wrote about Joel Tavera, an Army sergeant severely wounded in Iraq in 2008, there was a groundbreaking for his new house that would allow him to live in Tampa with the injuries he received.

Saturday, there will be a parade from the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital to his new home at 20007 Outpost Point Dr. The ceremony will be attended by, among others, Admiral William McRaven, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command.

But first a little background.

Tavera was horrifically injured in Iraq on March 12, 2008, in an attack that killed three others and wounded Tavera and another soldier.

He was severely burned, had traumatic brain injury, lost part of his right leg, the sight in both his eyes, the fingers on his left hand and had to undergo many painful surgeries.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue’s Kelly Hallman heard that Tavera needed a home.

When not fighting fires, is an architect and, among other things, designs houses.

So, working with the Building Homes For Heroes, a non-profit that supports the needs of severely wounded or disabled veterans and their families through building mortgage-free homes.

The 4200 sq. ft., four-bedroom, four-bathroom specially-adapted home designed and constructed by William Ryan Homes to meet all of Tavera’s special needs.  In recognition of its tireless commitment, leadership, and exemplary work, William Ryan Homes is the recipient of Building Homes for Heroes’ Extraordinary Design Award. 

After months of construction work, Saturday is move in day.

A parade to welcome Tavera into his new home begins 9:15 a.m. at the hospital.

“We want to thank all the hospital and military personnel, the construction team, and all of our supporters for making Joel’s dream home possible,” said Andrew Pujol, president and founder of Building Homes for Heroes said in a press release.  “The happiness the family feels, and the expressions on their faces will say what no words could possibly convey.  The day will be a celebration of patriotism; where families, corporations, community members, and volunteers stand together to honor those who safeguard our nation.”