Lake in the Hills Army veteran receives new roof through community partnership

Army veteran Kenneth Raymer was honored on Thursday, June 18, with a new roof on his Lake in the Hills home through the Owens Corning Roof Deployment Project, a nationwide initiative that recognizes veterans by providing critical home improvements.

The project was made possible through a partnership among Home Genius Exteriors, Owens Corning, Purple Heart Homes, ABC Roofing and Richards Building Supply.

For Raymer, who served in the U.S. Army from 1984 to 1992, the roof replacement represented more than a home improvement project. It served as a recognition of years spent serving his country and helping train fellow soldiers.

Military service has long been part of Raymer’s family history. His grandfather served during World War I, his father served during the Korean War era, and his brother also served in the military.

During his Army career, Raymer worked as an instructor, helping train National Guard soldiers through field exercises, tactical evaluations and leadership development programs.

One of the experiences that left a lasting impression on him was Victory Tower, a demanding military obstacle course designed to test endurance, teamwork and perseverance. The lessons learned there helped shape his approach to leadership and life after military service.

“Veterans like Ken spent years answering the call to serve others, often without expecting anything in return,” said Brent Miller, executive vice president and co-founder of Home Genius Exteriors. “This roof is our way of saying thank you. It represents more than protection for a home — it represents gratitude, respect and our commitment to honoring those who have sacrificed for our country.”

In addition to installing a new roof, project partners contributed other improvements to the home. ABC Roofing donated skylights, while Richards Building Supply provided gutter materials.

The Owens Corning Roof Deployment Project partners roofing contractors with nonprofit organizations and community volunteers to provide new roofs for veterans and their families. Since launching in 2016, the program has helped more than 800 veterans nationwide.

Raymer said he remains proud of his military service and grateful for the opportunities and lessons the Army provided. Thursday’s project brought together volunteers and community partners to give back to a veteran whose own service focused on helping others succeed.

Home Genius Exteriors’ participation in the project is part of its Home Genius Cares initiative, which supports charitable and community-focused efforts across the country.

The roof installation was completed Thursday, June 18, at Raymer’s home in Lake in the Hills.