The American Legion Heroes to Hometowns presents "The Homecoming of Jose Pequeno"

After spending nearly three years in military and VA hospitals, Jose Pequeno - who suffered traumatic brain injury from combat in Iraq - finally came home Dec. 19 to Land O'Lakes, Fla. The severely wounded veteran arrived in a van, escorted by his mother, Nelida Bagley, sister Elizabeth and daughter Mercedes. Patriot Guards lined the street with motorcycles and US Flags. A crowd of about 250 people cheered Jose as he exited the van in a wheelchair. Nelida and Elizabeth thanked the crowd and wheeled Jose into his new home, which had been renovated and specially modified as part of The American Legion's Heroes to Hometowns program. In just eight days, about 150 volunteers - including tradesmen and neighbors - turned the house into a handicapped-accessible residence. "Through the generosity of our vendors and the hard work of our members, we were able to complete $70000 worth of upgrades to this house," Department of Florida Adjutant Michael McDaniel. As Jose settled in his new home, visitors enjoyed a barbecue outside, featuring "Heroes to Hometowns BBQ" sauce sold by a Florida company that donates profits to Heroes to Hometowns and other Florida Legion programs. "This is a great celebration," Department of Florida Commander Paul Martel said. "It just goes to prove that The American Legion is here for our veterans. We're here to do the right job at the right time, in the right place. "Our Heroes to Hometowns is a wonderful program, and we Legionnaires have to keep our eyes ...