U.S. Army veteran David Roca and his three children will soon move into a brand new mortgage-free home in Lennar’s Connerton community in Land O’ Lakes, Florida. Lennar and Connerton joined forces to donate the home to the Roca family through Operation FINALLY HOME, which has helped donate 150 mortgage-free homes to U.S. military veterans over the last 10 years.
Before the family gets a first look at their home, which is under construction, their future neighbors and friends are invited to leave inspirational “Notes of Love” on the framing at the home on April 1, 2 and 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.
Those who can’t make it to the home during these times are welcome to leave inspirational messages for the family on heart-shaped notes at the Connerton clubhouse, 21100 Fountain Garden Way, between April 1 and 7. The messages will be stapled to the framing of the home before the family takes the tour.
Operation FINALLY Home, along with Lennar and Connerton, first surprised Sgt. Roca with news of his new mortgage-free home in February.
“After reviewing his background and sacrifice for our country, we knew that David was deserving of a new home,” said Rusty Carroll, Executive Director of Operation FINALLY HOME. “Being able to witness the family’s reaction first-hand, and the community welcoming them was such a blessing.”
Roca, 36, enlisted in the Army in August 2004 and soon after, his unit deployed to Iraq. During his deployment, he sustained several traumatic brain injuries in combat. Despite his injuries, Roca was known for his strong work ethic and devotion to duty – exemplified by his many awards – including the Valor Device military decoration, which he received for saving his commander’s life in battle.
When Roca returned home from Iraq, his injuries prevented him from participating in physical training, and he medically retired in December 2008. He continues to suffer from his brain injuries, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder. Once Roca is fully recovered, his goal is to return to the workforce.
“We are sincerely thankful for Sergeant Roca’s service to our country and are honored to be part of this project,” said Mark Metheny, Division President of Lennar Tampa. “We wish the Roca family all the best and look forward to seeing them settle into their new home.”
This is the sixth home Lennar has donated to a U.S. military veteran and the first in the Tampa Bay area.
The Rocas’ new home is located in Connerton at 8743 Savory Walk Drive in Land O’ Lakes.
Help welcome military veteran Sgt. Roca and his family to Connerton!
What: Write inspirational “Notes of Love” on the drywall and framing of the Roca family’s future home
When: April 1, 2 & 8 | 12 – 3 p.m.
Location: Connerton | 8743 Savory Walk Drive | Land O’ Lakes
Those who cannot attend the scheduled open house events can stop by Club Connerton, 21100 Fountain Garden Way, to leave their notes between April 1 and 7.
