SGT Wesley Byrd
Petersburg, MI
Inspired by his grandfather’s military service, Wesley Byrd enlisted in the Army in 2004.
On June 14, 2007, during his second combat deployment, Sergeant Byrd was serving as a cavalry scout serving with 2-1 Cavalry, 2nd Infantry Division in Iraq when his vehicle drove over an improvised explosive device (IED) and explosively formed penetrator (EFP) array . A firefight with insurgents followed the blast. Wesley sustained injuries that became progressively worse after returning stateside, including lower extremity impairment with complete paralysis, back injuries, balance impairment, tinnitus, mobility issues, and TBI.
Wesley and his wife, Jill, enjoy spending time with their three children, Madyson, Logan, and Kinley, and service dog, Cody. In their current house, Wesley is unable to use his wheelchair because of the split-level design and narrow hallways and doorways.
A specially adapted custom HFOT home will transform Wesley’s ability to parent and engage in family life. “In this new home I’ll be able to do a lot more, especially around the house. I get to tuck my kids in at night. I get to cook. I get to give back to the family and feel like I’m part of the family again,” he says.
Originally from Texas, Wesley is choosing to build his home in Michigan to be close to family and friends.
Wesley would like to extend his gratitude to HFOT donors and supporters for the life-changing gift. “I was hopeless, and then Homes for Our Troops came along, and now I’m not hopeless anymore. I have hope. To all the supporters out there, I’d like to say thank you. Thank you for giving my family back.”
Ver: 7-25
Sign Up for Updates:
Connect With Us: