SOUTH MILWAUKEE, Wis. — A retired South Milwaukee police officer and Army veteran is getting a major upgrade to his home, thanks to a new program.
What You Need To Know
- Sierra Exteriors LLC launched its new Free Roofs for Veterans Program
- The roofing contractor installed its first free roof for South Milwaukee Army veteran David Stratton
- Stratton's roof was destroyed during a hail storm in May 2024
- He filed an insurance claim but it got denied
In May 2024, David and Donna Stratton’s roof was ruined in a hail storm. They filed an insurance claim that got denied. Then, their neighbor put them in contact with Sierra Exteriors LLC for help.
The roofing contractor, based out of Delavan, just launched its “Free Roof for a Veteran Program.” It’s a new initiative that installs free roofs for Wisconsin veterans. David Stratton was the first veteran to get one.
“I was in the Army from 1981 to 1985 in the 82nd Airborne Division, and deployed to Grenada for ‘Operation Urgent Fury,’” said Stratton. “It was sort of a different time than it is today.”
Stratton then went on to serve on the South Milwaukee Police Department for 23 years before retiring in 2018.
He said being thanked for his service has never been easy.
“I grew up with Vietnam, and so there was a long time that veterans weren’t given much respect and any honor for their service,” said Stratton.
He said the tone has since changed.
“So, it’s nice to see that people appreciate the service. Less than 1% of the population actually serves,” said Stratton.
Contractors are showing their appreciation by replacing his roof.
“Veterans bring our freedom,” said Sierra Exteriors LLC Director of Sales and Marketing Josh Pastryk. “Veterans are the ones who go on the front line and risk their lives.”
Pastryk said it’s the least they could do, donating their time and labor, while partnering with other companies who feel the same.
Beacon Roofing Supply in New Berlin is providing the roofing supplies. Outside Sales Representative Andy Kremel said they’re happy to have a hand in it.
“For us to be able to help out with something like materials, it’s nice to give back to those that truly deserve it,” said Kremel.
David and Donna Stratton said they feel that appreciation.
“It’s appreciated more than they probably understand,” he said.
Veterans in need of home repairs may qualify for this new program. To inquire, contact Sierra Exteriors LLC.
