U.S. Army Sgt. Manny Mendoza-Valencia, a disabled Iraq war veteran, receives an $11,000 donation to the “Sentinels of Freedom” outside his new Danville home. Mendoza is part of the San Ramon Valley’s “Sentinels of Freedom” program. From left to right in the photo are: Maj. Gen. Ron Lowe, USAR (Ret.); Mike Conklin, CEO, Sentinels of Freedom; U.S. Army Sgt. Manny Mendoza-Valencia, wounded Iraq war veteran; Mike Weber, U.S. Army veteran and J. Rockcliff real estate broker; Vance Smith, Vice-president, J. Rockcliff Realty.
Sgt. Manny Mendoza-Valencia received the keys to his new home, which he purchased through J. Rockcliff Realty, and broker Mike Weber. A group of supporters from the Sentinels of Freedom, a veterans support group, plus various business, government and media representatives crowded into Manny’s new home for a look.
Mendoza-Valencia, lost both of his legs when an improvised explosive device (IED), exploded near his U.S. military convoy in Iraq. After extensive medical care and rehabilitation, the Mendocino County native moved to the San Ramon Valley, as the first Sentinel of Freedom. “I was surprised at how well I was received in the community,” Mendoza said, “It’s just been amazing these past four years.”
He took a job with AT&T, finished school and now bought his new home. Despite losing two limbs, he has not lost his hope and optimism, thanks in large degree to the Sentinels of Freedom. “If you put you best foot forward, so to speak, everything can work out. It’s good to know your sacrifice isn’t in vane,” Mendoza said.
Weber, the J. Rockcliff broker, is also a Vietnam veteran. “I think it’s the duty and obligation, particularly of Vietnam veterans, to look out for and be a big brother to current veterans,” said Weber who served as an Army medic for two years. Weber didn’t just sell Mendoza-Valencia the home. He and Rockcliff then donated their $11,000 real estate commission back into the Sentinels of Freedom.
Sentinels use donations to give wounded veterans college scholarships, transportation, a home and a job, so that they can assimilate back into society successfully. Mendoza calls the program a real lifesaver.
Sentinels of Freedom is a consortium of military veterans, business and civic leaders, government officials, religious leaders, and other volunteers. In other words, it’s a cross section of the community. The concept, and the veteran, were both praised by local elected officials.
“We’re glad that this Valley is so supportive,” said Danville Vice-mayor Karen Stepper, “We’re glad you’re in Danville!”
“Thank you all who had a part in this” said Sentinels Founder and CEO, Mike Conklin. “Without Manny’s drive and motivation, he wouldn’t be able to achieve what he has. This is the guy who carried the water,” Conklin added.
Mendoza-Valencia plans to move into the house in January. If you want to help the cause, you can find out more information at www.SentinelsOfFreedom.org.
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