Bank of America presents symbolic key to house
photo by Wes Schultz
Cake
photo by Wes Schultz
Checking out bedroom
photo by Wes Schultz
Flag pole and flag-lined driveway
photo by Wes Schultz
Friends gathered in front yard
photo by Wes Schultz
Going into house for first time
photo by Wes Schultz
Mayor with Mr. Rubin and his children
photo by Wes Schultz
Motorcade officers
photo by Wes Schultz
Police motorcade and Sgt. Anderson
photo by Wes Schultz
Sgt. Rubin Anderson salues during Pledge of Allgence
photo by Wes Schultz
Army veteran Rubin Anderson on Thursday received the keys to a mortgage-free home in honor of his military service and sacrifice.
The gift was courtesy of Bank of America and the Military Warriors Support Foundation.
Mayor Andy Berke, representatives from Bank of America and members of the community gathered to honor the retired U.S. Army Sergeant for his service to his country.
The home is in Ooltewah.
Retired Army Sgt. Anderson joined the Army in 2002. He served tours in Kuwait and Iraq where he was recognized for his leadership.
He led a team of 16 to 22 soldiers and was responsible for providing mounted and dismounted patrols for dangerous roads throughout Iraq. In 2006, the truck he was driving was hit by an Improvised explosive device (IED). He received the Purple Heart along with numerous other awards.
Bank of America recently surpassed its goal to donate 1,000 properties to non-profits supporting military service member families and first responders who have housing needs. The bank works closely with Homestrong U.S.A. and other nonprofit organizations that identify the home recipients and also provide related services, such as financial counseling. Originally envisioned as a three-year program when announced in August 2012, Bank of America reached its 1,000th military home donation more than a year ahead of schedule. The bank will continue the program, officials said.