NWA Iraq veteran receives keys to custom home

PEA RIDGE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — A Pea Ridge veteran who lost his leg in Iraq is moving into a new home with custom modifications to simplify his family’s daily life.

Sergeant Andrew Butterworth received the new house from Homes For Our Troops , a nonprofit that helps post-9/11 veterans rebuild their lives by building them custom-made homes.

On Nov. 15, 2004, Sgt. Butterworth was injured in Northern Iraq when two RPGs hit his vehicle, resulting in the loss of his right leg and a traumatic brain injury.

Sgt. Butterworth’s wife, Julia, experiences a limb difference in her left leg. Accessible features in the Butterworths’ new home include lower countertops and roll-under sinks.

“This is going to do so much for us to be able to move, get around, give the kids room to run and play,” Sgt. Butterworth said. “It’ll all set in, I’m sure, in a few more days, but it’s all kind of overwhelming right now. It’s awesome.”

The home was designed by Jeff Cato of Homes by Cato Creations. This is the first accessible home he has designed.

During the ceremony, Cato was moved by the positive impact it would have on Sergeant Butterworth and his family, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.