R.I.S.E. Home #37 for Natural Stone Institute

BOERNE, Texas – The Natural Stone Institute has provided natural stone and fabrication services here for its 37th home with the Gary Sinise Foundation through its R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) program.

U.S. Army Capt. (Ret.) Juan Guerrero and his family Natural stone and fabrication for the residence presented U.S. Army Capt. (Ret.) Juan Guerrero and his family were provided by Triton Stone Group, Coldspring, True Blue Surfaces, and Quality Stone Company.

The Foundation’s R.I.S.E. program builds 100% mortgage-free specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans and first responders.

Guerrero immigrated to the United States with his family from Lima, Peru, in 1986, and joined the Armed Forces shortly after graduating from high school. During the Gulf War in 1990, Guerrero deployed to Saudi Arabia with B Company 1/3, 3rd Marine Regiment, known as the “Lava Dogs,” based at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay in Hawaii.

During his third tour of duty in Iraq on July 26, 2007, Guerrero, who at the time had 350 missions under his belt, was driving back from a mission with his convoy when an explosively formed penetrator (EFP) struck his vehicle. The EFP detonated approximately 25 feet ahead of his vehicle; fragments penetrated the bottom of his vehicle’s door and struck his right calf.

He broke his tibia and fractured his left ankle and the skin and muscle surrounding it. His lower legs were severely injured; after eight surgeries on his failing right leg, he finally opted to have it amputated below the knee in September 2010.

In June 2014, Guerrero developed a rare form of skin cancer on his left heel, which resulted in his left leg being amputated below the knee two years later. He is now cancer-free.

Companies interested in getting involved with future projects are encouraged to email rise@naturalstoneinstitute.org. To learn more, and to see a list of all Natural Stone Institute members who have donated their time, products, and services to this cause, visit www.naturalstoneinstitute.org/RISE.

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