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IRVING, Texas - A North Texas disabled army veteran and his family got a major surprise on Monday.
The serviceman and his family were honored to accept the gift of a new home to be built in Irving. It’s all thanks to a group of philanthropists and homebuilder who pulled it all off.
There was a motorcycle escort and a big surprise for an unsuspecting veteran. US Army Major Eric King served 13 years in the army. Had three tours: two in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. He was wounded by an IED explosion and is now disabled.
The unfolding moment triggered many emotions for King when he realized he was getting a custom mortgage-free home to be built in Irving.
"I wasn't prepared for this. I thought we were going to meet and just have coffee. This is truly surprising,” he said. “I want to thank my Heavenly Father for blessing me for being here on today. He has allowed me to get through the triumph, surviving combat, being able to get back in the right state of mind."
King was under the impression he was a candidate to be considered for a free home. The humble serviceman and his family had any idea that the selection process was already complete.
"I don't myself feel deserving of it,” he said. “There are greater heroes out there who can't be here today. They deserve it. They deserve it.”