PROVIDENCE – U.S. Rep. James R. Langevin joined volunteers from Operation Stand Down Rhode Island, Team Rubicon and the Home Depot Foundation in celebrating recently the help the organizations gave in replacing a roof at the home of Emile Johnson, a Vietnam War veteran.
“I am overwhelmed and just very happy that so many people came to our aid,” said Johnson’s wife, Kathy Johnson. “It’s good that there are organizations out there that are willing to step in and help a vet in need.”
Kathy Johnson had reached out to Langevin’s office for help, looking for volunteers to place a tarp over the damaged section of the roof. Langevin turned to Team Rubicon for assistance in assembling volunteers. Committed to replacing the roof completely and providing additional assistance, Team Rubicon in turn reached out to Operation Stand Down.
Operation Stand Down also connected with the Home Depot Foundation and, between the three organizations, they provided the funding and labor needed to replace the roof and also to replace the home’s hot water heater, which broke down last month.
“I am overwhelmed by and so grateful for the generosity of these organizations and the volunteers who donated their time for a deserving veteran,” Langevin said. “I am especially grateful to Emile Johnson for his service to our nation, and I hope this project brings his family both comfort in knowing the roof is replaced and pride in knowing that his service will never be forgotten.”
Langevin also praised the organizations that stepped up, saying he is “proud that my office could play a small part in connecting these organizations with the Johnson family.”
“This is a prime example of all parts of the community going together to help our veterans,” said Erik Wallin, executive director of Operation Stand Down Rhode Island. “We are proud to have been part of such a great collaboration with Congressman Langevin, Home Depot and Team Rubicon.”
“When I saw the condition of their roof firsthand, I knew a tarp wasn’t going to be enough. Luckily we have partners like Team Depot to get the job done. It’s an honor and our pleasure to work with Operation Stand Down RI and Team Depot to help a veteran – and his family – in our community,” added Charles Lacoste, state administrator for Team Rubicon USA.
The Home Depot team also expressed its eagerness to give back to veterans.
“More than 35,000 of our associates are veterans. We’re proud to roll up our sleeves and serve those who served us,” the team stated.
