Rodger Downing has a family history of men who served our country and believes it is everyone’s obligation. That’s why he joined the U. S Marines Corps in September, 1985. Rodger reported to Parris Island, SC, for his Basic Training in 1986, and then on to Infantry Training School at Camp Geiger, NC for assignment as a machine gunner.
His military career was packed with training and tours to the Persian Gulf, Bosnia, Kosovo and two deployments to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he was injured.
GySgt Downing returned from Iraq and retired from active duty in 2006. He assumed duties in the field of Security in 2007.
Rodger found it incredibly difficult to adjust to civilian life and still does. Because of a Traumatic Brain Injury he suffered when wounded in Iraq, along with back and knee injuries, he has a hard time climbing stairs. Numbness and weakness in his right arm will not allow Rodger to carry things, and he finds it hard to do what needs to be done around the house.
Purple Heart Homes is replacing Rodger’s HVAC system and renovating a bathroom on the main floor so he does not have to worry about climbing stairs and possibly falling or causing additional pain to his back and knee. His dining room will also be renovated to a bedroom, so he is on one floor with his family.
“It means a great deal to me since it is hard to go up and down stairs. I will be able to get to my room without causing pain in my back and knee,” says Rodger. “I am very grateful to Purple Heart Homes, and words cannot really say what this means to me. It gives me hope for the future.”
Thank you Rodger, for your dedicated service to our country. Special thanks to your family for their love and support, and we welcome you all to our Purple Heart Homes family.
