In April, Design Tech Homes and Legends Architectural Stone completed a special project in partnership with Helping a Hero, a 501(c)(3) organization based in Texas that has provided custom-built homes for veterans who have sacrificed for our country, with 42 heroes selected from 16 states so far.
The 25-year-old, Houston-based homebuilding company built a custom home for U.S. Army Specialist Zach Parker (Ret.), his wife Misty, and their two sons. SPC Parker sustained life-altering injuries while serving in the global war on terror, and this home was thoughtfully designed to meet his needs and honor his sacrifice.
“We are deeply honored to be a part of this effort to give back to a deserving American hero and his family,” said Design Tech Homes. “This custom-built home is more than just a house, it’s a symbol of gratitude, resilience and hope.”
Legends Architectural Stone, a local, veteran-owned company led by Pat Wilson and Jimmie Morris, was a proud donor of all the natural stone and masonry materials for Parker’s home. As former U.S. Marine Corps servicemen, Wilson and Morris believe that supporting fellow veterans is more than an obligation – it is a duty.
“We all serve our time in the forces, and it’s the brothers and sisters before us and after us that allow us to enjoy the freedoms we have each and every day,” Wilson said. “They keep our country’s borders safe and defend against all enemies, foreign and domestic.”
This life-changing project was made possible with the support from Helping a Hero and vendors such as Legends Architectural Stone who provided materials, time and labor, as well as Patten Properties, a non-GHBA member that donated the two-acre lot in Republic Grand Ranch, located in Willis.
The home’s groundbreaking ceremony on July 16, was a patriotic celebration, attended by notable Houstonians such as baseball legend Roger Clemens and Congressman Morgan Luttrell, alongside neighbors and community members. The event included a short parade and heartfelt messages of support for the Parker family. Then, on April 21, the Parker family received the keys to their new home.
For Legends Architectural Stone, their contribution exemplifies how GHBA members play a vital role in honoring and supporting our local heroes.
“For us, it’s about giving back to ‘our own’ and building a sense of belonging and stability for veterans like Zach,” Morris said. “As more heroes are selected and as more projects move forward, Legends Architectural Stone remains dedicated to supporting the cause. Service to our country doesn’t end when the uniform comes off, it continues in acts of kindness, compassion and community support.”
