United States Army Staff Sergeant Frank Laguna is a dedicated husband, father, and veteran who hails from San Antonio, Texas. He served as a SSgt in both the Marines and the Army. As a first-generation American, he grew up witnessing his family’s struggles and successes in pursuit of the American dream. This background of hard physical labor instilled in him a strong work ethic and a passion for mechanics and hands-on work.
After high school, Laguna enlisted in the Marine Corps with his brother, driven by a sense of adventure and a desire to honor their family’s sacrifices and show appreciation for America. During his military career, he served at various locations across the United States and internationally, including Okinawa, Korea, Kuwait, and as a combat Marine in Iraq. He valued the camaraderie, built lifelong friendships, and developed skills that have lasted throughout his life. Laguna is particularly grateful for earning the respect of his fellow Marines and Soldiers, and he views his role in nurturing future leaders as one of his greatest achievements.
After 12 years in the Marines, Laguna switched to the Army to explore a new military occupational specialty. Sadly, during an Army training exercise, he sustained a severe spinal injury, which led to his medical retirement after 18 years of service. This injury resulted in multiple surgeries, permanent nerve damage, and a host of complications, including debilitating cramps and spasms. At one point, he feared he might be confined to his wheelchair. Fortunately, the IDEO program at the Center for the Intrepid in San Antonio, Texas, offered renewed hope, allowing him to walk again, although he still experiences bilateral foot drop, pain, and weakness. Additionally, he faces challenges related to PTSD, a late-diagnosed traumatic brain injury (TBI), chronic pain, and medical complications from previous falls and constant reinjury.
Today, Laguna cherishes the time with his wife, Candace, who has been his unwavering support. He is also a proud father of four, cherishing the chance to watch his children explore their passions and find their purpose. He is exceptionally proud of his daughter, Allysium, who is an active duty United States Navy Seabee. Laguna embraces life fully, taking on various roles— he loves being Candace’s sous chef in the kitchen, participates in adaptive sports, and volunteers in his community, always eager to make a positive difference and do good.
With support from Tunnel to Towers, he has found renewed excitement for the future and is thankful for the blessings their new home and community bring. Having an accessible home is freedom for both Laguna and his son, who has ROHHAD Syndrome.
Laguna reflects, “Realistically, the future is physically painful; it’s the nature of the severity of my injuries. However, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, the future has never looked brighter or more exciting!”
The most important message United States Army Staff Sergeant Frank Laguna wants to share is his deep love for his country, family, and God, which keeps his spirits up. He is grateful for Tunnel to Towers being part of his journey and healing, recognizing that this home will bring many blessings to his family.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided United States Army Staff Sergeant Frank Laguna with a mortgage-free smart home through the Smart Home Program.