Evansville, IN – On Wednesday, Bone Dry Roofing crews installed a brand‑new roof on the west‑side home of Army veteran Christopher Chockrem, free of charge. The project was made possible through a partnership with the Owens Corning Foundation, which supplied the roofing materials, and Purple Heart Homes, a nonprofit that matches veterans with safe, restored housing.
Annual Veterans Day roof giveaway
“Every single year we give a roof away to a veteran in need,” said James Ford, general manager of Bone Dry Roofing. “We partner with Owens Corning, who is our primary shingle supplier, and we get to give away a roof.” Ford explained that the company’s team evaluates which homes are in the worst condition and which veterans are most in need before selecting a recipient.
Chockrem, who served nearly eight years in the U.S. Army, was chosen for this year’s giveaway. His wife is currently working overtime, and the family needed a roof replacement urgently. “We thought we’d give it to him and he earned it,” Ford added.
Scope of the project
The crew replaced the entire roof system, from the deck up, including new edge metals, accessories, ice‑and‑water shield on valleys and eaves, and all protrusions. Ford estimated the total value of the work at about $19,000, and the new roof comes with a 25‑year warranty.
Continuing a nationwide effort
This giveaway is part of a nationwide effort that has provided more than 875 military members with new roofs since 2016. Ford, an Army veteran himself, noted that this is the third consecutive year he has helped install a roof for a fellow veteran. “Veterans helping veterans is one of the coolest things ever in my opinion,” he said. “Being able to serve someone who served our country is awesome.”
Looking ahead
Bone Dry Roofing plans to open nominations for next year’s roof giveaway in September via its Facebook page, inviting community members to suggest veterans who could benefit from a similar roof replacement.
The project underscores the strong tradition of local businesses and charitable organizations working together to honor those who have defended our nation, while also reinforcing the importance of safe, well‑maintained homes for families across Evansville.
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
