Two Police Officers are Honored With Specially Adapted Smart Homes on the 18th Anniversary of the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

On the 18th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on 9/11, we reflect and pay tribute to our fellow citizens and first responders lost when four jetliners were hijacked to carry out a suicide mission in the unrealized hopes of injecting fear and calamity upon our democracy.  

While under attack, our nation witnessed extraordinary acts of heroism and bravery by first responders sent to the World Trade Center, Pentagon and a rural field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Through the smoke and debris and the cries for help, our nation’s heroes and ordinary citizens alike courageously helped one another in the most austere environment to rescue and guide others to safety. 

From the carnage and loss of life that September day, Gary was resolved to take action and commit to those who bravely raised their right hand and took an oath to faithfully serve and protect our nation and communities. The 9/11 attacks were a turning point in his life and a pivotal step in his journey from self to service.

As part of the Gary Sinise Foundation Restoring Independence and Supporting Empowerment (R.I.S.E.) program, we’re proud to announce the latest recipients of a future specially adapted smart home.

Retired police officers Mathew Crosby of the Rock Hill Police Department in St. Louis and Ryan O’Connor of the Arnold Police Department in Jefferson County whose sacrifices made in the line of duty while serving their respective communities permanently changed the course of their life and that of their family.   

Officers Crosby and O’Connor can look forward to a more comfortable recovery and rehabilitation process in 100% mortgage-free homes that uniquely suit their mobility and daily life needs all while fostering greater independence. 

Click here for Police Officer Mathew Crosby's Donation Page

Click here for Police Officer Ryan O'Connor's Donation Page

Through the support and generosity of the American people, the Gary Sinise Foundation is honored to provide police officers Mathew Crosby and Ryan O’Connor and their family a specially adapted smart home to turn a new page in their recovery efforts and begin a new chapter in their lives.

Press Conference Quotes

Our family is incredibly honored to become a part of the Gary Sinise Foundation family and we look forward to many happy years in our new home - Barbara O'Connor

I am one grateful American - Ryan O'Connor

I am incredibly grateful to Gary Sinise and everybody at the Gary Sinise Foundation. We couldn't be more proud to join your family and for you to join ours as well. - Mathew Crosby

I'm looking forward to my kids having their own space. - Mathew Crosby

Latest Media Coverage

• St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Sinise Foundation to build homes for two injured St. Louis area officers

• FOX 2 Now St. Louis: Gary Sinise Foundation to build homes for officers injured in the line of duty

• CBS KMOV 4: Gary Sinise Foundation building ‘smart homes’ for 2 local officers injured while on duty

• St. Louis Post-Dispatch Videos: Two area officers injured in the line of duty express gratitude

• FOX 6 NOW: Gary Sinise Foundation to build homes for officers injured in the line of duty

• WGN 9 Chicago: Gary Sinise Foundation to build homes for officers injured in the line of duty