Veteran's Story: Sergeant Donald Alexander

In Seneca, South Carolina, Sergeant Donald Alexander, a Marine Corps Veteran of both Korean and Vietnam eras, recently received an accessibility ramp to safely enter and exit his home. This project, completed through Purple Heart Homes' Veterans Aging in Place (VAIP) Program, reflects our mission to support aging Veterans with mobility challenges by making their homes safer and more accessible.

Led by the Golden Corner Chapter and funded by The Home Depot Foundation, this ramp project was a community effort - made possible by 14 volunteers who logged 191.5 hours to ensure Sergeant Alexander could maintain his independence at home.

A Life of Service

Born in 1935 in Vermont, Donald Alexander answered the call to serve at a young age. He joined the United States Marine Corps and served from 1952 to 1961, dedicating nearly a decade to his country during two conflicts - the Korean War and the Vietnam era. 

He was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant and earned multiple honors, including: the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

Donald continues to serve his fellow Veterans as an active member of the Marine Corps League #1131 and American Legion Post 124 in South Carolina. 

Meeting a Mobility Need

Due to a service-connected injury to his right shoulder and the general effects of aging, Donald began facing difficulty entering and exiting his home safely. Without a ramp, basic mobility became a growing concern - especially when navigating stairs or uneven ground.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Purple Heart Homes, through the VAIP program, stepped in to help provide a solution.

How Purple Heart Homes Helped

Under the leadership of Project Manager Lamar Austin, and with the support of the Golden Corner Chapter, a team of 14 volunteers built a sturdy, accessible ramp that now allows Sergeant Alexander to move in and out of his home with ease.

This project was funded by The Home Depot Foundation, whose ongoing partnership enables us to reach Veterans like Donald throughout communities across the country.

Our Mission in Action

At Purple Heart Homes, we're committed to ensuring aging Veterans can live safely and comfortably in their homes. Whether it's a ramp, roof repair or full renovation, our Veterans Aging in Place Program makes that possible - one project at a time.

A special thank-you to The Home Depot Foundation, the Golden Corner Chapter, Project Manager Lamar Austin and every volunteer who made this project successful.

Help us continue supporting those who served us. Donate, volunteer or spread the word - and be a part of the impact.

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