Oberlin, Ohio—The Natural Stone Institute has provided materials, labor and services for its 42nd home with the Gary Sinise Foundation through its Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment (R.I.S.E) initiative. The programs builds 100% mortgage-free, specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans and first responders.
The latest recipient is U.S. Army Sergeant Christopher Kurtz, who enlisted in February 2009 and deployed with the 101st Airborne Division to the Arghandab River Valley region of Afghanistan in June 2010. In December 2010 a remote improvised explosive device detonated nearby where Christopher was walking on foot patrol. The blast tore through his legs. He lost two fingers on his left hand and broke his pelvis in three different places. Once stabilized on the battlefield, Christopher was evacuated to Kandahar Air Field then to Landstuhl, Germany, before arriving at Walter Reed Army Medical Center to undergo additional surgeries where both his legs were amputated above the knee. After four years of active-duty service, Christopher medically retired from the Army in 2013 with the rank of Sergeant.
Natural stone and fabrication for Sergeant Kurtz’s home were provided by Triton Stone Group, Exodus Stone Surfaces and Northern Stone Supply. Companies interested in getting involved with future projects are encouraged to email rise@naturalstoneinstitute.org.