Smith, Local Officials, Vets & Law Enforcement Honor Marine Vet Presented w Keys to "Smart Home'

Statement

Congressman Chris Smith today joined representatives from the Stephen Siller Tunnels to Towers Foundation, local elected officials, members of law enforcement and local veterans in honoring United States Marine Corporal Scott Nokes. Nokes received the keys from the foundation to a new "smart home" which was built specifically for him and his needs as a blind double amputee resulting from his service in Afghanistan.

In 2003, Smith authored the Veterans Benefit Act (PL 108-183) that increased government funding to $50,000 for Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) programs for severely disabled servicemembers. The SAH government program helps veterans like Cpl. Nokes live independently but doesn't cover the entire cost of home ownership. That's where the Tunnels to Towers Foundations stepped in. Through a strong and committed network of donors and corporate partners, the Tunnels to Towers Foundation conveyed the home to Cpl. Nokes free of mortgage.

"No one deserves this more than Corporal Nokes," Smith said. "He is a courageous marine with an indomitable spirit."

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