Stratford Veteran Receives Free Home Repairs From House Of Heroes CT

STRATFORD, CT — A 43-year-old Stratford Navy veteran who took part in rescue and recovery efforts 24 years ago following the Persian Gulf attack on the USS Cole recently received no-cost home repairs from the non-profit veterans service organization House of Heroes Connecticut.

The total number of veterans served by the organization since its 2012 founding has reached 241, according to a news release.

Navy veteran Brendan Sullivan, 43, grew up in Stratford and served from 1999-2005.

“He was an Operations Specialist aboard the USS Tarawa in 2000 when he and fellow crewmates were called upon to assist the badly damaged USS Cole, which was bombed by al-Quaeda terrorists,” according to the news release. “Some 17 sailors lost their lives.”

A team of volunteers from Project Partner M&T Bank and the Town of Stratford, along with others, worked on the home repairs on Aug. 30. The work included repairing and rehabbing a rear deck and railings, power washing, fixing broken glass, installing a door and completing necessary plumbing and electrical work, among other tasks.

A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, House of Heroes Connecticut recognizes, honors and serves military and public safety veterans and/or their surviving spouses in need for their sacrificial service to America. The organization strives to “Make a Difference in a Day,” providing no-cost home repairs focusing on safety and accessibility. The Connecticut Chapter is part of a national organization founded in Columbus, Georgia in 2000. For more information, visit www.hohct.org.