Volunteers replace roof for Vietnam veteran

Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) on March 18 joined volunteers from Operation Stand Down Rhode Island, Team Rubicon, and the Home Depot Foundation, organizations that were responsible for replacing the roof at the home of Emile Johnson, a Vietnam War veteran, on Calla Street in Providence.

“I am overwhelmed and just very happy that so many people came to our aid,” said Emile’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 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 for a deserving veteran, Team Rubicon reached out to Operation Stand Down. Operation Stand Down also connected with the Home Depot Foundation and, between the three organizations, provided the funding and manpower 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. 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 said. “I commend Operation Stand Down, Team Rubicon and the Home Depot Foundation for their kindness and commitment to supporting veterans, and I am 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. All of which have proved time and again their dedication to our Rhode Island veterans.

“Team Rubicon is a veteran-based disaster relief organization; our primary mission is responding in the wake of natural disasters. Our motto is ‘Disasters are our business - veterans are our passion.’ When Kathy Johnson, the wife of a disabled Vietnam veteran, contacted us seeking assistance putting a tarp on the roof of their house, I told them Team Rubicon would be happy to help. When I saw the condition of their roof first-hand, 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,” said Charles Lacoste, state administrator for Team Rubicon USA.

Added the Home Depot team: “Giving back to veterans is personal to us at The Home Depot – more than 35,000 of our associates are veterans. We’re proud to roll up our sleeves and serve those who served us.”