MONSON. - Chicopee resident Seth Abdou said it's an honor to be able to volunteer his time to help a veteran through the Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity Veterans Build Program.

Abdou, along with other staff members and volunteers, spent Wednesday morning helping to replace the windows, siding and doors for former Army Specialist Fourth Grade Roland Shaeff.

"I think very highly of those in the service," Abdou said. "My father actually served in Desert Storm in the 90s. He was in the Navy and I got a few family members here and there who are in the military, so I've always been a big supporter and I do everything I can to show my appreciation."

Shaeff was drafted in 1970 and served in Fortwood Texas and Bebenhausen, Germany. In 2014, Shaeff underwent surgery and his doctors discovered a serious medical issue which has since made it difficult for him to make any major repairs.

"I developed CLL, which is a part of leukemia about 10 years ago," Shaeff said. "And since then, I can't do much anymore. I get tired and so forth, so it's been neglected."

It's been a difficult road, but Shaeff said the support from his community has been surreal.

"Oh it's amazing," Shaeff said. "I mean, the first time they showed, up I cried. I'm still crying. It's good, it's good."

For Abdou, it's about returning the favor for those who served.

"They give their lives for us," Abdou said. "The least we can do is give some of our time to help give back to those who helped us."

Habitat For Humanity says the housing project is expected to be completed by the end of the week. The organization is always looking for volunteer support and anyone interested can find more information on their website.