The Poggi family applied for Operation Finally Home, which is a nonprofit that builds custom mortgage-free homes for military veterans and widows. Unaware that their application was chosen the family came to town under the impression that they were meeting to interview with homebuilder Homes by Deesign over lunch. When arriving to Brickyard Estates subdivision in Mascoutah what they thought was to view a possible lot location they were surprised when suddenly they were being escorted by three groups of veteran bikers. When they arrived to their surprise they welcomed by a giant American flag waving from a fire engine’s extended ladder along with the Mascoutah High School marching band and Junior ROTC squadron standing at attention. As the family exited the car they were welcomed to their future homesite with a round of applause. The groundbreaking ceremony began with Scott Airforce Base Honor Guard presenting Lance Corporal Poggi with a folded American flag followed by comments from Operation Finally Home, Builder: Bob Dee with Homes by Deesign, HBA President: David Padgett with Padgett Building & Remodeling, Invocation by Chaplin Lt. Maj. Kristi Hopp with Scott Air Force Base, Mayor of Mascoutah Jerry Daughtery, Mascoutah High School Principal Brandon Woodrum and Dory Nissen with Christian Broadcast Network Dory. The entire family was thrilled to have a hand on the golden shovel to turn over the first pile of dirt on the site of their future home! It was an emotional moment when the Poggi family was asked to speak. They didn't hesitate to thank everyone and share their shock and amazement of all those involved. Lance Corporal Poggi said “I don't understand how there can be people so good, so willing to help” and “I don't feel like a failure anymore.” Thank you to everyone that has donated and that was able to attend! It is truly inspirational to have so many companies come together to allow the Poggi family to live a life in a home without obstacles! For more information on the family, to view local news segments of the day, find ways you can help and watch the progress of the home visit our website at www.hbaswil.org. 2
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