Too often, the nation’s veterans are thanked for their service, only to find that meaningful aid doesn’t necessarily follow.
But for St. Augustine Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Roy Wilbur, his community’s recognition has extended well beyond gesture.
Thanks to the St. Johns County Housing Rehabilitation Program and supported by Operation Lifeline, the local hero’s dilapidated home of four decades underwent a complete renovation that restored running water, installed air conditioning, and improved accessibility.
His eyes welling with gratitude and disbelief, Wilbur recently returned to his refreshed abode as local officials, volunteers and community members looked on with pride.
“We all have a debt to pay,” Congressman John Rutherford said. “Hopefully, in some small way we paid a little bit of it back today.”
Wilbur, who earned the Bronze Star for heroic achievement and two Purple Hearts after being wounded multiple times in combat, struggled to describe his appreciation.
“I thank everyone who participated and everyone who came out and done what they could do, and everyone who supports me,” Wilbur said. “This is great, man. This is real.”
The modest home underwent extensive repairs, including new ADA-compliant bathrooms, structural framing, HVAC, siding, flooring, and a kitchen. The improvements addressed years of deterioration, including the loss of running water and structural safety hazards.
The makeover was punctuated by the installation of two flags in front of the home — the Stars and Stripes and the Marine Corps banner.
Commissioner Sarah Arnold called Wilbur “an icon in this town” and “part of the fabric of West Augustine.”
Operation Lifeline Executive Director Erick Saks also spoke, praising the collaborative effort that restored dignity to a home that was bordering on uninhabitable.
“This is an amazing feat,” said Commissioner Clay Murphy. “This neighborhood came together.”
The renovation was completed with in-kind labor and resources from Builders Care, the Heroes Ride, and volunteers with Operation Lifeline. Saks said the scale of the work was initially daunting — but there could be no retreat.
“When we first walked in, we didn’t know if we could take this on,” he said. “But when we were able to work with the County through two different programs, through CDBG and SHIP, and then work with our partners, we got this all together.”
Dazzled by the transformation and the commitment of those who made it possible, Wilbur’s emotions swelled.
“I keep tearing up,” he said. “I’m trying to keep from crying.”
St. Johns County’s housing rehabilitation program, launched more than 20 years ago, provides repairs to keep residents in their homes and address urgent code, safety, and health concerns.
In 2024 , the program invested $1.9 million to assist 37 residents.
