The Gary Sinise Foundation is making a difference for a veteran and his family on Thursday.
The foundation welcomed retired U.S. Navy Petty Officer First Class John Kremer and his family to their new home in Lebanon, Ohio, which is around 32 miles outside of Cincinnati.
The Gary Sinise Foundation, also known as GSF, was founded by actor Gary Sinise — who is known for his role as Lt. Dan in “Forest Gump,” as well as his roles in “CSI: NY,” “Apollo 13,” and more. The foundation, according to its website, serves “our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need” via programming “designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen, and build communities.”
This is the 91st home that GSF has built for the most severely wounded veterans to help them regain their freedom and independence.
Kremer served two tours in Iraq. During his last tour in Afghanistan, he was seriously injured and lost both of his legs in a landmine explosion.
His new 2,900 square foot single-level home includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, an attached garage, an open floor plan, and is fully accessible and equipped with smart technology.
“His physical needs have been taken into consideration in the design of the cabinetry, in the layout of the bathrooms, and the ability for him to shower and take care of his personal needs day in and day out,” said Pete Franzen, the senior project manager with the Gary Sinise Foundation.
Kremer said the new home will help empower him for success.
“It’s allowing me to be more independent — like I can actually get around my house now,” Kremer said. “I can actually do laundry, do dishes, help cook.”
Along with daily tasks around the house, Kremer is most excited to be able to spend more time with his two young children as they grow as a family.
Once Kremer and his family officially move in Friday, he already has a plan for their first gathering under the new roof.
“Definitely having family over,” Kremer said. “I have a pretty big family and the family’s coming over for barbecues and stuff.”
Along with the house, the Gary Sinise Foundation is also helping the community with two separate grants of $30,000 each to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office and the Miami Valley Fire Department in Lebanon.
