A piece of the World Trade Centers is presented to Jackson business
JACKSON, Tenn. — When soldiers come back from serving time overseas, veterans say adjusting back to civilian life can be difficult, but it can be especially challenging for those who have lost arms or legs during their tour of duty. A national organization is making sure those veterans get the help they need, and a piece of steel now sits in Jackson to keep that message going. John Turkus was at Ground Zero working as a firefighter in New York the day of the September 11 terrorist attacks. FIrefighters like Turkus have since started an organization to give back to those who have fought for freedom. “After 9/11, the whole country came together to help those affected by the attacks. Coming around the country now, we’re seeing all of the support from all these people and seeing first hand the faces of all the people who helped us out and now helping with building for America’s bravest,” Turkus explained. First responders from all across Madison County gathered at Deaton’s Carpet One to joined forces with an organization putting the needs of the nation’s soldiers first. “To see who these guys are building houses for, and see the commitment that this organization has, it kind of rips your heart out,” Gary Deaton said, owner of Deaton’s Carpet One. The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Tower Foundation has built 46 smart houses around the nation for soldiers who have catastrophic injuries. Carpet One, along with Mohawk Flooring is working with this foundation to build two more. For Turkus, who is now retired, it is the least he can do. “Many have signed up because of the 9/11 attacks, so anything we can do to help them is a plus,” Turkus explained. Deaton said in one day they raised more than $6,200 to help build the next two homes.
