Bringing a Hero Home

By Danielle Campbell

Marine Platoon Commander James Blyer of Huntington lost both legs in Afghanistan when an IED blew up in 2010.

"This is a local veteran that was severely disabled while protecting the country, and it's on us to make this happen and we are proud to be part of it," says Kevin O'Neill, of the John Engeman Theater.

Andrew Pujol and the builders who will be making changes to Byler's home say they want to make sure he can be self-sufficient and have his own space when he returns home from Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

His childhood home in Huntington needed to be renovated so he can return. However the costly renovation was not affordable for Blyer’s parents, who have spent most of their time and money helping their son recover from the physical and emmotional trauma.

But now thanks to the town of Huntington, business leaders, Veterans and a not for profit group called “Building Homes for Heroes” , Blyer’s family will not have to worry about making their home comfortable for their son.
The organizations have committed to renovating his home so he can live independently.
The group, started by a Long Islander, raises money, designs, builds and renovates home for injured Veterans.
Many from the Huntington community as pledged to help Lt James Blyer and now you too can help make a difference in this heroe’s life. On June 25th the John Engeman Theater in Northport is holding a special concert –called a salute to Broadway –Tony award winning actors will be performing–the best part is all proceeds will go towards building James Blyer’s home!
The town of huntington is holding other special events to raise the 300 thousand dollars needed.
Check out news 12.com under number and links–and you can see more of events planned!
Each day as a reporter I am amazed and thankful for the wonderful people who live here–Long Islander’s who fight for our freedom and make tremendous sacrifices for our country. And I am grateful for those who live their lives in an effort to help others.

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