Sumter Army recruiters and a Future Soldier volunteer with Sumter Habitat for Humanity July 15

By Leslie Ann SullyJuly 15, 2014

Cutting the siding
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Future Soldier cuts siding
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Hanging siding
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Staff Sgt. Robert Hayward wanted to do something different with the Future Soldiers in his station. "I signed up online to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and I hope today is the first of many times we will help the community," he said.

Michelle Huff, the site construction supervisor, said the crew will work on hanging siding and then move indoors to sand the walls and paint. This was perfect duty Tyler Harrington. "I have had a few construction jobs and worked at a horse ranch in Texas," he said.

Harrington, 18, just graduated from Crestwood High School in Sumter, S.C., where he played several sports. But he knew early that he wanted to join the Army. He has been in the Future Soldier system for 6 months and will attend basic training in August. "I am a fourth generation Soldier and I got my wish to be an Infantryman," he said.

Home owner Veneza Williams was happy for all the help. "I came over to see the progress and also to help," she said. She said she has learned a lot during the process and is grateful to everyone.

Habitat for Humanity builds safe, affordable houses for qualified homebuyers and each one is built in partnership with homeowner families, sponsors, and volunteers. Bob Brown, who works for Habitat for Humanity said it takes about 3 months to complete a house.

Related Links:

Columbia Recruiting Battalion Blog

Flickr Habitat for Humanity photo album