Mehl Renner
Mehl Renner, a proud Vietnam Veteran, has lived a life defined by service and resilience. Born in Rome, Georgia, and raised in Atlanta, Mehl joined the U.S. Navy in 1966 during the height of the Vietnam War. His four-year enlistment included three years at NAS Pensacola, Florida, where he worked as a jet engine mechanic, maintaining T2A training aircraft and F4 Phantoms flown by the Blue Angels. Mehl’s final year was spent aboard the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk, where he served off the coast of Vietnam and as Master-at-Arms, a role akin to military police.
Despite the challenges of the war era and turning down an opportunity to become a Naval pilot, Mehl returned to civilian life determined to succeed. With the help of the G.I. Bill, he earned a college degree from the University of Evansville in Indiana, honoring a promise to himself to continue building his future. Now retired and living in Charlotte, North Carolina, Mehl has faced new challenges.
Last summer, his 22-year-old heating and air system failed, leaving him unable to afford the costly repairs or replacement. With only ceiling fans and a temporary window unit, the sweltering heat became a serious issue, especially with his lung condition. “The comfort level in my house was not good,” Mehl admitted.
That’s when Purple Heart Homes stepped in. Partnering with Brothers HVAC Co. and the Home Depot Foundation, the organization replaced Mehl’s outdated system, providing a lifeline during a difficult time. "I was absolutely astounded," Mehl shared. "I wasn’t sure I could believe it until it actually happened. Words cannot truly express my gratitude." The new system, installed with care, has transformed Mehl’s home. “The comfort it provides is beyond belief,” he said. “It has made my life so much better.”
About Purple Heart Homes
Co-founded by two combat-wounded Veterans, Purple Heart Homes has been bringing communities together to provide safe, barrier-free housing solutions for qualified Veterans since its founding in 2008. A nonprofit organization based in Statesville, N.C., PHH supports service-connected disabled and senior Veterans from all eras across the continental U.S., Hawaii and Puerto Rico through a growing network of local chapters. Programs include critical home repairs and renovations to help Veterans live independently in their homes, home ownership programs, and transitional housing through partnerships with other nonprofit organizations. Learn more at phhusa.org.
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