Veteran’s Story: Whitt Coleman

A Quiet Hero with a Proud Naval Career

Born in 1953, Whitt Coleman served in the United States Navy from 1975 to 1990, during the Cold War era. He was honorably discharged at the rank of IC3 (Interior Communications Electrician Third Class), E-4, after 15 years of dedicated service aboard Navy vessels and deployments around the globe.

His commendations include:

• Navy Expeditionary Medal
• Humanitarian Service Medal
• Sea Service Deployment Ribbon

Today, Whitt remains an active part of the Veteran community through his membership in the American Legion, continuing a legacy of service and camaraderie.

Service-Connected Challenges and a Home in Decline

Due to his time in the military, Whitt lives with service-connected injuries to his feet and shoulders, making mobility and household maintenance difficult.

He reached out to Purple Heart Homes after dealing with roof leaks that had begun to affect the structure of his century-old home.

Without a proper roof, rot had set into the ceiling joists, raising concerns about long-term stability and weather damage.

A Community Steps Up

Thanks to the coordination of Project Manager Tim Bates and the hands-on dedication of the Central Virginia Chapter, work began quickly to address Whitt’s needs.

First, Cenvar Roofing stepped in to provide free roofing services, installing new shingles last month that immediately eliminated leaks and protected the home from further damage. Whitt was thrilled with the results — no more leaks and a new roof that could help this 115-year-old house make it another 85 years.

But the project didn’t stop there. Over the course of a few days, additional work was completed to:

• Remove and replace rotten ceiling joints
• Install new sheetrock and finish with mud
• Replace a damaged light fixture and complete electrical wiring updates

These repairs restored the interior structure and safety of the home, completing yet another successful Purple Heart Homes Chapter project.

Powered by Partnership

This project was made possible by a collaboration between The Home Depot Foundation, Cenvar Roofing, and our committed local volunteers.

We extend our thanks to these incredible partners whose support made this transformation possible. Their dedication to improving the lives of Veterans like Whitt reflects the very best of public and private partnership.

Our Mission in Action

At Purple Heart Homes, we’re proud to provide aging Veterans with the safety, dignity, and stability they’ve earned. Whitt Coleman’s story is one of many that show what’s possible when communities come together to serve those who served us.

Special thanks to Project Manager Tim Bates, the Central Virginia Chapter, Cenvar Roofing, and The Home Depot Foundation for making this project an example of our mission in motion.

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