LA FERIA — Bill Gray walked into his home holding Liz Torres’ hand.
It was the first time in years his home was clutter free.
Torres assisted Gray as they managed the extreme cleanup of his home over a two-day period.
“This is an awesome thing,” said Harlan Lucas, Donna American Legion Post commander. “We are helping our veteran and helping each other.”
Gray, 67, a lifelong La Feria resident, was awarded a free home cleanup by Steri-clean to celebrate Veterans Day and to ensure he had a clean home.
Gray served in the Navy and Army during the Vietnam War.
“We found somebody who needed help and that’s why we’re here,” Lucas said.
Lucas said Gray’s home took on an amazing makeover from the first time he walked through the home just a few days ago.
“It shows you what people can do in such a short time,” Lucas said.
Gray’s residence transformed from danger zone into a cozy home with the help of the community.
“They brought in a whole lot of family history,” Gray said sitting in his new living room char.
He said he is ready to keep his home clean and in tip-top sailor shape.
Gray had let his home clutter up with disorganized possessions left in boxes and in stacks and piles of things and kitty litter boxes.
To commemorate Veterans Day and celebrate his service in the military, Gray walked into his home wearing his sailor uniform and hat.
Little did he know, the pictures of his family and his military career would be decorated on the walls.
The U.S.S. Scott battleship was hanging between long landscape photos of his father’s work in Cuba installing the first oil drilling pumps.
His pictures already framed were in the corners of his room for nearly 12 years. They were caked with dust and dirt.
The volunteers cleaned out his home, changed out his ceiling and remodeled it all for Gray.
“It’s an exceptional change,” said Leslie Bowers after touring the home. “They did a great job and it’s great for Bill.”
Bowers said she has been Gray’s friend for more than five years. It was the first time she sat in the living room with Gray enjoying Veterans Day and his home while eating a celebratory cake.
“Everyone gave a little bit,” said Eric Hoff, La Feria city commissioner.
