Retired Army SPC Marco Solt is the newest owner of the mortgage-free home that was provided by the Homes for Our Troops, the Builders Association of the Twin Cities, Accent Homes, and via a fund-raising by many family and friends.
"It takes you back a little bit because you knew it was going to be a good house but you didn't' know how beautiful it was going to be. Now to actually see the final product, it's amazing," said Solt. "It doesn't just touch me it touches all the veterans here knowing we have support from the community."
Kare 11 News reported that the home was made to accommodate the special needs of Solt. The doorway was made wider to let his wheelchair pass through with ease. In the kitchen area, lowered countertops and pull-down cabinets are installed to help Solt move around and help with the chores.
"The home is totally accessible and it's a safe home and it's a home where he can raise his family and have a beautiful lifetime together," said Retired US Major General Timothy McHale, president and CEO of Homes for Our Troops.
"It's huge, It's really huge I know we are really excited to get in that kitchen, my wife so desperately wanted that island. We are so excited I'm at a loss for words for it all." Solt said.
"I'm speechless; this is just beautiful and amazing," shared Solt's wife, Gina. "It's been a long process and we are happy it is finally time to move in."
Solt lost both of his legs under knee during his first deployment in Afghanistan as a a combat engineer with the 54th Engineer Battalion when the vehicle they are riding was hit with an Improvised Explosive Devise.
According to Fox 9 News, Senator Al Franken and Senator Amy Klobuchar were present during the ceremony and Ribbon Cutting. Senator Klobuchar previously met Solt at the Walter Reed Medical Center.
"Something I'll never forget. I was having a bad day and I thought I'll go over there and meet some of our injured troops, and Marco was so optimistic," Klobuchar remembered. " He said, I've lost my legs, but I've got my life in front of me."
