Shining a beacon of light on veterans

By Emma Peterson.

Meet four of the 2024 Beacon of Hope winners who will receive a free installation and/or repair for their roofs.

Like many organizations and individuals in our industry, Beacon Building Products is dedicated to “Building Better for its Communities.” One of the ways they do this is through their Beacon of Hope program. This program was created six years ago and is open to all military veterans in North America (U.S. and Canada). Through collaboration with local roofing companies, this program helps deserving veterans in need get a safe and secure place to live. The roofs installed through the program feature TRI-BUILT® products and products from CertainTeed.

Julian Francis, the CEO of Beacon, described the mission of this program, saying, “Everyone deserves a safe home secured by a reliable roof, especially the men and women who have given so much to our country. The Beacon of Hope contest supports veterans with new roofs and uplifted spirits. It is our privilege to give back to the veterans and their families who live in our communities.”

Brian S. - Cameron Park, California  

Brian S. grew up on military bases around the world and enlisted in the U.S. Army when he was just 17 years old. After four years of service to our country, Brian came back to the states and in 2008 became a business owner (California Re-Key Locksmith). He was nominated by his son, Garrett S., who summed up why he nominated his dad, saying, “Even at age 65, with an aortic aneurism, he works harder than everyone I know. He has selflessly worked hard his entire life to provide for his family and give me a childhood that he wasn't able to have.”

Pat C. - Chicopee, Massachusetts  

Patrick (Pat) Comiskey Sr. has spent his entire life and career giving to those around him. He served two tours during the Vietnam War, returning with PTSD, Agent Orange exposure and kidney/heart damage. Even with his health complication, when he returned, Pat jumped into work to help his community, such as helping run the Springfield Rescue Mission’s outreach food operations. Tom M., who nominated Pat, shared a bit about him, saying, “He put himself last to give his all for his wife, caring for her even more for the last 3+ years as her health sadly declined... He does not like to be recognized or ‘bragged’ about, but he has always given to others if he could and has never looked for anything in return. He spent his years caring for his mother when he was younger to working hard for everything he has and caring for his family.”

Dorothea W. - Columbus, Ohio

Dorothea W. spent her late twenties and early thirties serving in the U.S. Navy reserves. She recently celebrated her 94th birthday, though she still works a part time job to make ends meet and pay her bills. Andrew S., who nominated Dorothea, explained that much of her money and savings went to taking in and caring for children when she was younger. He shared, “She would take on orphaned kids in her home and help them with food and clothing, spending much of her earned money and savings on those children that she was helping out.”

Sayra W. - Lincoln, Nevada

Sayra W. is a prime example of dedication and commitment. She came to the U.S. from Mexico as a child with her mother and became a citizen in 2013. Sayra worked hard her entire life to embrace the opportunities her mother sought for her by bringing her to this country. When she graduated high school, she found her path forward through enlistment with the U.S. Army. From there, Sayra’s unwavering dedication and commitment helped her rise through the ranks to the position of staff sergeant in less than six years. Jennifer C., who nominated her, described Sayra saying, “Her service is an example of leadership and determination. Equally important is her passion for guiding her soldiers beyond military life, encouraging them to pursue higher education and preparing them for success in civilian careers.”

Read more about the Beacon of Hope program and the other 2024 winners online!