OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma House of Representatives today honored retired U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Rowdy Freeman, as he was presented with a home built for him by Military Warriors Support Foundation, a nonprofit that provides programs designed to facilitate a smooth and successful transition into civilian life for combat-wounded veterans and Gold Star families.

The home was gifted to him through their program Homes for Wounded Veterans, which awards mortgage-free homes to veterans wounded in direct combat and Gold Star spouses whose loved one was killed in action. While serving in Afghanistan in 2010, Freeman’s vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. Freeman was diagnosed with a compressed spine, muscle strain in his back and a concussion. He continues to have hearing and back problems as a result of his injuries.

Rep. Rusty Cornwell, R-Vinita, and Rep. Kevin McDugle, R-Broken Arrow, surprised Freeman, an 11-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps, with the news he had been given a home.

“Staff Sergeant Freeman exemplifies what it means to be an American patriot,” McDugle said. “He served his country bravely and this presentation is one small way we can thank him for that service. After getting to know Rowdy, his wife Glory, and their kids, I can truly say that there is no family more deserving of this house than the Freemans.”

McDugle is also a Marine and served in combat in Somalia, Bosnia and Saudi Arabia.

Cornwell, who volunteers with several nonprofits for veterans, said, “What an honor to have been included in the opportunity to present Staff Sergeant Freeman and his family with a home. For over a decade, he put his life and health on the line every day for our country, and he and our other veterans deserve our utmost respect and gratitude for their willingness to serve.”

Freeman made the decision to enlist after witnessing the events of 9/11 unfold his freshman year of high school. Throughout his service, he received a Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbons in Afghanistan and Iraq and many more awards.

Freeman lives in McLoud with his wife, Glory, and four of their children.