DAYTON — U.S. military veteran Glenda Watson received a brand-new roof and gutters at her home in Dayton as part of the annual “Roofs for Troops” initiative.
Crews completed the entire installation project in a single day.
The renovation represents an estimated $15,000 investment made possible through a collaboration between local contractor DryTech Exteriors, manufacturer Owens Corning and nonprofit organization Rebuilding Together Dayton.
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The annual project selects local military veterans in need of critical home repairs.
Watson served in the U.S. National Guard as part of a medical unit.
“I loved being in the National Guard. I was in a medical unit, and I was proud, still proud,” Watson said.
Knowing that her roof required urgent repairs that would have taken years to pay for on her own, Watson reached out for assistance.
She recalled the moment contractors evaluated her house and confirmed they could complete the project.
“When the guy came out and looked at the roof and says, ‘We can help you,’ I was really elated,” Watson said.
Watson noted that her Dayton house has served as a central home for her family.
“Since I moved here, I’ve gotten five grandchildren here also. And they needed a place to stay, so this is helpful,” Watson said.
While she plans to continue working on other home improvements, she expressed relief at having the roof replaced.
“I can’t put it into words. I’m excited. It’s just the beginning of work that I need to do on this house. But this is a big help,” Watson said.
Brad Hosler, owner of DryTech Exteriors, emphasized that providing home repairs for former service members is an obligation for local businesses.
“I didn’t go fight for my country. They did. We’re indebted to them. The least we could do is put a roof over their heads,” Hosler said.
He added that he hopes more organizations will assist military personnel in the future.
“I wish more people would get on board with helping veterans like we are today,” Hosler said.
