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Severely Wounded Heroes

Franz Walkup

U.S. Army Sgt. (Ret.)

On September 29, 2012 in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, Franz sustained five gunshot wounds from Afghan National Army soldiers. On October 12, 2012, Franz arrived at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

Support Heroes Like Franz

Franz Walkup After Being Shot

Franz's Incredible Story of Bravery & Patriotism

Retired U.S. Army Sergeant Franz Walkup was born in Reutlingen, Germany, on September 12, 1988. He moved to the United States in May of 2001. The death of his older brother inspired Franz and his two younger brothers to join the military. Franz was deployed to Iraq for Operation New Dawn in 2010.

On September 29, 2012 in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, he sustained five gunshot wounds from Afghan National Army soldiers. On October 12, 2012, Franz arrived at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

Franz attended the Colorado School of Trades and graduated with a focus in gunsmithing. He hopes to pursue his career and start a family. He moved into his specially adapted smart home on December 22, 2016. Franz right leg was salvaged after his injury, but he has been living in pain for years. On October 4, 2017, he made the decision to amputate his right leg below the knee. He looks forward to using a prosthetic leg with the hopes that it will provide him more independence.

Our Privilege

We Proudly Built A Custom Home for Franz

The Gary Sinise Foundation was proud to build a custom home for Franz specially adapted to his unique needs.

We've built homes all across the nation for America's most severely wounded heroes. Every home is fully custom and 100% mortgage-free. Learn more about our custom homebuilding programs or support our efforts today.

Wall of Gratitude

Franz Walkup

Blessings to you and your loved ones 🙏
J. Wilkins
Oklahoma
FOREVER RESPECTED HERO
S. Bennett
Louisiana
Thank you for your service
H. Thomas
Iowa
Franz, the grit you’ve shown means more than you know.
E. Powell
New York
Franz, your resilience reminds people to fight through their own struggles.
A. Carr
Wisconsin
Much respect and thanks for everything you’ve given.
Z. Drake
Maryland
With gratitude today and every day 🇺🇸
E. Peterson
Rhode Island
You carry a strength that encourages the rest of us to keep going.
F. Hunt
Illinois
Your sacrifice is not forgotten.
C. Jackson
Mississippi
  

 
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