We’re excited and honored when we have the opportunity to partner with incredible clients who give back to our community. And this is just such an occasion.
On Veterans Day 2020, client Wendell Falls gathered with its partners to honor a legacy – the legacy of SFC Elis A. Barreto who dedicated his life to his country, who served with courage and who made the ultimate sacrifice for his nation.
Wendell Falls, along with Garman Homes, the HBA of Raleigh-Wake County, the U.S. Veterans Corps and Operation: Coming Home, hosted a patriotic key ceremony to unveil a “Hero Home” to the family of SFC Barreto, who died in combat in September 2019. The first in Wendell, this Hero Home was given to Legna, SFC Barreto’s wife, and her children as a gift to honor his service. Fresh Paint by Garman, one of Wendell Falls’ award-winning builders, constructed the house on a homesite donated by Newland.
Called a Hero Home Finale, the key ceremony celebrated the life and accomplishments of SFC Barreto. The event featured patriotic songs from the Bombshells along with heart-felt comments from government officials, Garman, Newland, the HBA … and finally Legna herself.
Partners unveiled exciting gifts for Legna and her family, such as technology from Lenovo, a golf cart from Garman (for the Wendell Falls culture!), a refurbished car and even a special military-themed room for Legna’s two boys.
We were thrilled to share this heart-warming story with our community and the media. If you want to get a glimpse of the day in action, check out one of these stories!
- The News & Observer, Front Page (also in The Charlotte Observer, The Winston-Salem Journal and Stars and Stripes)
- ABC 11 TV
- CBS 17 / WNCN TV
- WRAL TV
- The Fayetteville Observer
- Wake Weekly
- Triangle Business Journal
Thank you to all who have served our country. We are deeply grateful for your investment and sacrifice.
*All photography credited to Bekah Morton Photography.