Veteran Story: James Crawford

When Purple Heart Homes met Specialist James Crawford, it was clear that his dedication to service did not end when he left the military. Born in 1975, James served in the U.S. Army from 1997 to 2000 as a Heavy Anti-Armor Weapons Crewman. During his years of service, he earned several notable distinctions, including the Army Achievement Medal, Army Lapel Button, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Rifle Bar. His commitment to excellence and courage in uniform reflected the same spirit he has carried throughout his life.

But like so many Veterans, James has faced significant health challenges since transitioning back to civilian life. After sustaining a lower back injury while working for the Anderson County Sheriff's Office, James experienced severe neuropathy in his legs and feet, hypertension, diabetes, and both carpal and tarsal tunnel syndrome. These conditions, combined with his medical retirement, have made daily activities increasingly difficult, not just for him, but for the four family members who share his home in Liberty, South Carolina.

A Home Without Proper Heat or Air

Before reaching out for support, James was living with an HVAC system that no longer functioned reliably. Without proper heat in the winter or air conditioning during South Carolina's intense summer months, maintaining a safe and comfortable environment was nearly impossible. For a Veteran managing significant health challenges, temperature control is not a luxury, it's essential to daily health, mobility, and quality of life.

A Path to Comfort: Replacing the HVAC System

Thanks to the generous grant from The Home Depot Foundation and the skilled contractors at Corley Plumbing Air Electric, James received a complete HVAC replacement through Purple Heart Homes' Veterans Aging in Place (VAIP) program. The Golden Corner Chapter also played a meaningful role in bringing this project to life.

This new system now restores James' ability to regulate the temperature in his home safely and consistently. For him and his family, that means better sleep, better health, and a renewed sense of stability. A working HVAC system may seem like a simple upgrade, but for James, it provides dignity, comfort, and peace of mind, a foundation every Veteran deserves.

Serving Those Who Served Us

At Purple Heart Homes, we consider it a privilege to support Veterans like James, whose service and sacrifice continue long after their military careers have ended. Each project is more than a repair, it is an opportunity to honor a life of selfless service by ensuring a safe place to call home. 

A Call to Support Our Mission

Every day, more Veterans like James come to us seeking help with critical home repairs, accessibility upgrades, and essential systems that allow them to live safely and independently. Through the support of donors, partners, and caring community members, we can continue delivering life changing solutions to the Veterans who need them most.

Join us in honoring those who served. Your support helps ensure no Veteran is left behind at home.

[Ways to Give]