CONFIRMED: “HOME FOR OUR TROOPS (HFOT’s) KEY AWARD CEREMONY”, Army SFC Justin C. “Chac” Menchaca (235-23) 11 Nov 23
174 Star Grass
Spring Branch, TX 78070
USA
“HOME FOR OUR TROOPS (HFOT’s) KEY AWARD CEREMONY”
The presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders has been requested to take part in this joyous event. We have been asked to ride a procession and stand a Flag Line for the veteran and family to participate in a “Key Awarding Ceremony” presented by Homes For Our Troops (HFOT). This ceremony will be the final presentation of a specially adapted mortgage free home for Army SFC Justin C. “Chac” Menchaca entered the Army in 2006 at the age of 17 under the 18X program. He went to Infantry training, then Airborne school, and straight into the Special Forces qualification course. In 2008, he graduated as a Special Forces Engineer Sergeant and was the Honor Grad of his class, as well as being one of the youngest to successfully complete the SF qualification course. He was assigned to 2d Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Ft. Bragg, NC.
On July 23, 2011, on his second combat deployment, SFC Menchaca was shot in the head during operations in Afghanistan. Unable to speak and with his right side paralyzed, the doctors did not assess that he would ever make much progress. However, after intense therapy for seven months, Justin overcame the odds, and relearned how to speak, write left-handed, and walk, transitioning from a wheelchair to eventually using a cane and a manual leg brace. Justin returned to Ft. Bragg, where he moved into a training support role while continuing his rehabilitation efforts.
Now medically retired, Justin has not let his injuries stop him. He works out daily to maintain the progress he has made, and enjoys outdoor hobbies like shooting, hunting, and fishing. He also hopes to learn how to scuba dive in the near future. In 2022, he married his wife, Carissa. Together, they enjoy traveling, cooking, working out and hope to start a family of their own soon. Though Justin has made significant progress in his recovery, he still experiences obstacles within his home. In a non-adapted home, Justin constantly worries he will injure himself further by slipping in the shower or falling on the stairs.
A new specially adapted custom home will give Justin the space to have his own service dog and the ability to continue his recovery. He says a single level home without stairs will be extremely beneficial. The special adaptations, like roll-under counters, a roll-in shower, and the accessible walkway around the home will make everyday tasks easier and give Justin more time and freedom to focus on his goals. The safe environment will enable Justin and Carissa to raise a family and with the financial freedom to start his own business.
Originally from Tacoma, Washington, Justin is choosing to build his HFOT home in Texas, where he fell in love with the hill country and wants to settle down.
Justin would like to sincerely thank the HFOT donors and supporters for giving him the peace of mind, safety, and security of a fully adapted home. “Your gift enables me to have some freedom and independence and will help me live comfortably and pursue my dreams.”
WEATHER: Hi 62 / Lo 52, 31% Chance of Rain, 94% Humidity, Wind: 13 mph N
REQUESTOR: Shaquanta “Q” Bailey, Community Outreach Coordinator
STAGING: 9:00 am, Saturday, November 11, 2023
Valero Gas Station
174 Star Grass
Spring Branch, Texas 78070
https://goo.gl/maps/wyBFQMJk7BL3SJK19
BRIEFING: 9:15 am
KSU: 9:50 am (Semper Gumby) Wait for the phone call from the HFOT’s Rep.
CEREMONY: Arrive NLT: 10:00 m
154 Red Rose
Spring Branch, Texas 78070
https://goo.gl/maps/fe63BiZEmT5CFwBZ7
RC: Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
bobtxpgr@gmail.com
FC: Juan “Mr. T” Tarango
juantarango16@yahoo.com
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.
2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.
3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!
***Safety Notice***
Before volunteering and/or attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders missions we encourage you to review all safety information below. Included are some potential safety concerns to be aware of, however this does not include the full scope of all potential hazards. Anyone attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders mission understands that they do so at their own risk. Neither the Patriot Guard Riders Organization nor its representatives are liable for any damages incurred on any PGR mission or event.
Funeral Processions/Escorts
EVERY RIDER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for their own safety at all times while riding in a funeral procession.
At NO TIME are any riders authorized to block any intersection or otherwise block or impede traffic laws in any way. Only Law Enforcement officials are authorized to block and/or impeded the lawful flow of traffic.
If you choose to fly a Flag on your bike you are SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for ensuring it is secured and not a danger to any other rider or traffic.
Warm Regards,
Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
Asst. State Captain
Deputy State Captain
San Antonio Patriot Guard
Dignity, Honor, Respect
Cell: 562-413-2223
“We can’t all be heroes. Some of us get to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”
Will Rogers