A soldier's home he can call his own
Volunteers build apartment for Lt. Brian Brennan
BY TOYNETT HALL Staff Writer
Looking in from the street, one would never be able to tell that a 1,000- square-foot addition has been constructed onto the Howell home where U.S. Army 1st Lt. Brian Brennan resides.

ERIC SUCAR staff U.S. Army 1st Lt. Brian Brennan sits in the living room of the new apartment that volunteers constructed at his parents' home in Howell. Brennan is continuing his rehabilitation from injuries he sustained in March while serving in Afghanistan.

But more than just a solid structure complete with a kitchenette, bathroom, bedroom, laundry center and living room, the addition is where the heart of Brennan's foundation lies.

Brennan is continuing his recovery from injuries he suffered on March 20 while serving with the military in Afghanistan. Brennan eventually lost both of his legs in the incident, which claimed the lives of three soldiers with whom he was riding in a Humvee.

Brennan was initially treated in Afghanistan before being transported to Germany and then to Washington, D.C. Since October, Brennan has reported to Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C., where he receives rehabilitation for his hand, his prosthetic legs and his speech. Weekends were spent at the home of his parents, Joanne and Jim, in Howell.

ERIC SUCAR staff U.S. Army 1st Lt. Brian Brennan maneuvers his wheelchair into the bedroom of the apartment that volunteers built for him at his parents' home in Howell.

Brennan and his mother credit the progression of his health to his time at home with family.

"Coming home allows me to relax, ultimately helping me focus on therapy while I am in the hospital," Brennan said.

Joanne Brennan reiterated that sentiment and said, "Wounded soldiers absolutely do a lot better and heal a lot faster when they have the support of their family 24/7. There is something about the voices of family members that provides an extra stimulus."

The addition to the Brennans' home was constructed by a team of volunteers led by Jack McNaboe of Manalapan, a former private contractor. Some of those volunteers are members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 400; Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 5; International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Local 1976; Barbmarie's Custom Kitchens and Baths of Freehold; Cermie Wood Products of Piscataway, and many more.

McNaboe said the construction of the addition was a total community effort.

"This has been one of the most rewarding experiences, and I have met some of the nicest people," he said.

McNaboe said the project is nearly complete, although he is currently seeking anyone wishing to donate their time and skill with carpentry and other minor jobs.

Inside, the addition is painted in eggshell, adorned with black leather couches from Brennan's apartment at Fort Benning, Ga. The floors are laminate and look like mahogany.

The apartment was designed by Dan Daly, a family friend and architect, according to Joanne Brennan. The space was created so that Brian may live independently. The Brennans are currently waiting on a certificate of occupancy from the township.

Jim Brennan said the Stands Alone trust fund that was set up to assist his son has exceeded Brian's needs. The Brennans are planning to help the families of other wounded veterans.

"Our mission is to help the family and loved ones of wounded soldiers stay (with them) longer through recovery, so the soldier's health can improve," Joanne Brennan said. "I want to meet with the families of wounded veterans and see their faces when I say, 'Give me your bills. Don't worry, stay with your loved one.' "

Jim Brennan said that in March, Brian will be honored by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick's, a group established in 1771 that focuses on Irish culture and causes (Jersey Shore) Spring Lake chapter, with the Commodore John Barry award.

For more information visit the Internet Web site at http://brennanstandsalone.org