Supporting a WWII Veteran: A New Home for Drew "Preacher" Smith
Drew "Preacher" Smith is a 99-year-old U.S. Army Veteran who served during World War II under General George S. Patton. He earned three Purple Hearts and three Bronze stars during his time in service, and this year, he will celebrate his 100th birthday.
Preacher's home in Holly Springs, Mississippi, was destroyed by a tornado in April 2025. In response, Purple Heart Homes, along with several partner organizations, stepped in to help him rebuild.
A Connection Formed on the Road
In June 2024, Preacher met Robert Luna, a retired Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer, while Luna was walking across America to raise awareness for mental health support for Veterans and first responders. Luna's foundation, AL2LA, helps connect those groups with resources and support services.
After learning about Preacher's situation following the tornado, Luna and his colleague Cathy Christiansen reached out to Purple Heart Homes in late April 2025 to see if there was a way to help.
Building a New Home
With support from North Carolina Contractor and long time support of Purple Heart Homes, David Risher of Risher Inc. along with grant funding from The Home Depot Foundation, plans were quickly put in place to construct a new, accessible home for Preacher starting in June.
Earlier this month, the local fire department performed a controlled burn of the damaged structure to make space to rebuild. Preacher was present during the process and is looking forward to the next chapter.
Weather permitting, construction will start the week of June 16. Follow along as this project progresses.
Community Fundraising Event
To help raise funds for this project and other Veteran-focused efforts, "7 Days for the Troops" - a local chapter of Purple Heart Homes - will host its 19th annual fundraising event June 15-21 at Barnes Crossing Mall in Tupelo, Mississippi. The event will feature raffles, auctions, giveaways, and guest appearances by Veterans and supporters.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT:
- Visit the event at Barnes Crossing Mall (June 15-21)
- Make a donation or become a sponsor at 7daysforthetroops.org
- Share Preacher's story on social media
Looking Ahead
Thanks to the combined efforts of Purple Heart Homes, AL2LA, RIsher Inc., The Home Depot Foundation, and the broader community, Preacher will soon have a new home. It's a fitting way to recognize his service and ensure he can celebrate his 100th birthday in comfort and safety.
