New home being built for wounded Marine and family

FUQUAY-VARINA -- Marine Sgt. Stan Roberts is one scoop of dirt closer to a new house.

Roberts, who lost his right leg and suffered trauma to his brain and right arm while serving in Iraq, is getting a new home for his family of six in Fuquay-Varina. On Thursday, he and his wife, Crissy, dug shovels into the ground at the site for the home, to be made possible through the "Operation: Coming Home" program.

"This is truly an honor," Roberts said. "The turnout today was overwhelming."

This marks the second time in two years that the program, formed by the Raleigh-Wake County Home Builders Association and the Triangle Real Estate and Construction Veterans, has given new housing to a local veteran.

Rich Van Tassel, president of Royal Oaks Building Group, said the house should be finished by October, so that the Roberts family can move in during November.

"This is a very real way for the American people to show their military we love and support them," Van Tassel said. "That's what this is about - honoring Stan's dedication and sacrifice."

Roberts served with the Marines during three tours in Iraq, offering his services as a radio operator aboard an Amtracker amphibious assault vehicle. He was injured by an improvised explosive device during his third tour, in 2007.

"I have good memories and I have bad memories," Roberts said of his service. "Some of those guys I'll never forget. It is one of those things that stays with you forever."

Lt. Col. Nick Davis, commanding officer of the Wounded Warrior Battalion East, served alongside Roberts in the Anbar province of Iraq. He said he values the selflessness and hard work of his comrade.

"Al-Anbar province is safer because of Stan's actions," said Davis, who helps wounded veterans readjust to civilian or further military life after their injuries. "We look forward to making him a part of the community of Fuquay-Varina."

Having finished his military service, Roberts said he is now earning an IT degree and someday wants to work for the FBI. In the meantime, he hopes his wife and four children - Jonathon, Jayden, Emily and Eileen - enjoy the home they will soon make their own.

"Crissy is ecstatic," Roberts said. "She has always dreamed of owning a house."