A hero from Michigan was wounded in Afghanistan years ago, now thanks to some local middle school students the amputee is getting a major gift... a place to call home.
It is not just any home. It is being built to specifically meet his needs.
Staff Sergeant Ben Eberle got a massive hero’s welcome at Anderson Middle School in Berkeley, Wednesday.
The Staff Sergeant is a triple amputee wounded in Afghanistan.
Six middle school students decided to partner with GMC, and the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation Building For America’s Bravest to build Eberle a “smart home” which will accommodate his special needs.
“When we started raising more and more money and we passed our goal we were blown away by all the help and how much everyone cared,” said 5th grader Lillith Fleischauer.
“It was just amazing to know we made such a difference in that soldier’s life. It was just wow! I don’t know what to say,” said 5th grader Corinne Jordan.
In an assembly at the school, students could see builders in Alpena, live, working on the home. “These six students,” said GMC Director of Marketing. “I hope they inspire everyone including my self to give back to the community.“
Eberle was amazed and speechless by the support from so many kids.
“Very patriotic and something I will remember for the rest of my life,” said Eberle.
The new house is expected to be completed in April 2015. Organizers are planning another celebration and possibly an assembly at that time.
