Celebrating 100 Homes: Brendan Marrocco, Our First Mortgage-Free, Smart Home Recipient

This fall, the Gary Sinise Foundation will reach a major milestone: our 100th mortgage-free, specially adapted smart home built for a severely wounded hero.

As we begin the countdown to this historic 100th build, we will be honoring the heroes and homes that laid the foundation of this program by sharing the stories that started it all. 

Brendan Marrocco: A Legacy of Firsts 

Brendan Marrocco grew up in Staten Island, New York, with a lifelong desire to serve. In December 2007, he enlisted in the United States Army, eventually deploying to Iraq.

On Easter Sunday 2009, Marrocco was behind the wheel of an armored vehicle specially built to protect against mines.

He was returning to base after a night mission when his life changed forever.

A roadside bomb specifically designed to pierce armored vehicles ripped through his driver-side door, severing both of his arms and legs. He also suffered a severed carotid artery, severe burns to his face and neck, broken facial bones, and shrapnel injuries to his eye. Within an hour, he was MedEvaced to a combat support hospital to undergo emergency surgeries before being transported back to the United States.

Despite his catastrophic injuries, Brendan clung to life. He became the first quadruple amputee to survive his injuries.

From Concert to Commitment: Gary’s First Home Building Project 

Brendan’s story didn’t just inspire a nation - it became a call to action.

Gary met Brendan during one of his regular visits to boost the morale of the wounded heroes at Walter Reed. He was so moved by Brendan's incredible story of survival, he connected him with triple amputee Bryan Anderson to act as a mentor.

But Gary knew he wanted to do even more.

While on location in New York City to shoot scenes for CSI:NY, Gary's pals from the FDNY approached him about helping to build a home for Brendan. The home would be specially adapted to Brendan's needs.

Without hesitation, Gary volunteered to bring his Lt. Dan Band free of charge to perform a fundraising concert. All proceeds would benefit the construction of the new home for Brendan to help restore the independence he lost when injured.

Building Hope: The First Smart Home 

In June 2011, Brendan received his mortgage-free, specially adapted smart home. The home was designed with advanced technology and accessibility features to meet his unique physical needs including hands-free controls, widened hallways, custom lifts, adaptive appliances, and more.  

Brendan’s home was more than a place to live – it was a lifeline – allowing him to reclaim his autonomy, rebuild his confidence, and begin envisioning a future beyond his injury.  

Against All Odds: Pushing the Limits of Recovery 

Brendan’s recovery took another remarkable turn in December 2012, when he underwent one of the most complex and groundbreaking surgeries ever performed: a bilateral arm transplant at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Today, Brendan continues to make progress, showing the world what is possible with the right support, technology, and spirit.

Thank You For Making 100 Homes Possible

When Gary launched the Gary Sinise Foundation in 2011, supporting America's severely wounded heroes became a cornerstone of its mission. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, that work proudly continues to this day.

Together, we've positively impacted the lives of one hundred severely wounded heroes and their families.

You can help severely wounded heroes like Brendan. Consider making a donation to the Gary Sinise Foundation today. Every dollar will make a difference.