Distinguished Owings Mills Veteran And Family Receive Mortgage-Free Home, Celebrate New Beginnings

OWINGS MILLS - In a heartwarming moment for the local community, retired Army veteran Staff Sergeant Martin Jones and his daughters were handed the keys to their forever home in Owings Mills on Wednesday.

The donation was facilitated by the nonprofit organization Building Homes for Heroes with the support of JPMorgan Chase. The life-changing gift gave the Jones family a mortgage-free home, a shining symbol of gratitude for his dedication and service to the country.

Staff Sergeant Jones, who bravely served in the first Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan, was severely injured in 2005 when an IED detonated in front of his convoy. The devastating explosion caused severe burns, a traumatic brain injury, and countless other health complications. Jones said he survived multiple IED explosions and encounters with suicide bombers throughout his distinguished career.

In addition to the Purple Heart, SSgt. Jones's gallantry and dedication have earned him numerous accolades, including the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and more.

The initiative to provide a mortgage-free home to this resilient veteran is part of JPMorgan Chase's Military Home Awards Program. In collaboration with nonprofits like Building Homes for Heroes, the firm has extended its gratitude to over 1,050 veterans and their families since 2011 by providing them with homes free of mortgage.

Building Homes for Heroes, founded by New York business executive Andy Pujol after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, has made a significant impact. With the backing of firms like JPMorgan Chase, Advance Auto Parts, Lowe's, and SAIC, the national nonprofit has built, modified, and gifted more than 325 homes to veterans since 2006.

A ceremony was held in honor of SSgt. Jones on Wednesday, with representatives from Building Homes for Heroes, JPMorgan Chase, and SAIC in attendance. Beyond its emotional significance, the event served as a powerful reminder of ongoing efforts to support our heroes and their families as they transition into new chapters of their lives.