Breaking ground on a new home for a West Texas veteran

Standing in a field of dirt in West Texas, several homebuilders and community members from the Lubbock area gathered Tuesday to break ground on a special home.

Several homebuilders and community members from the Lubbock area gathered Tuesday to break ground on a special home in a Wolfforth subdivision.

Once completed, the new house will belong to U.S. Marine Corps veteran Michael Anderson, his wife Jasmine and their son, Brodie.

It will also be given to them mortgage-free by West Texas Hero Homes (WTHH) and the West Texas Home Builder Association (WTHBA) to thank Michael for his service to his country.

After the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Michael answered the call to serve and joined the Marines. He served until he was injured and was honorably discharged.

"It is our honor today to break ground for a mortgage-free home for Corp. Michael Anderson, Jamsime and Brodie," said Tyson Reed, chairman of WTHH. "Michael, we appreciate your service, and this is just a small token of what we can show you and your family."

One of the co-builders for the project is WTHBA's president Jason Nesloney, who said the home will be a 2,600-square-foot, four-bedroom, three-bath home with a playroom for Brodie and an outdoor kitchen for Michael.

"We're looking at about 6 to 7 months over all for the build," Nesloney said.

As Michael and Jasmine dug their shovels into the land that will soon support their home, they both reflected on the experience and expressed their shock at learning they would receive a new home.

"It's just a big blessing," Jasmine said. "We were very surprised and happy that they are doing this for us — a dream come true."

"Just wanna thank everybody that's a part of this," Michael said.

To get involved with West Texas Hero Homes or to donate, visit www.wthba.com.