Garry William Thompson Jr. is an Army veteran residing in Cocoa Beach, Florida, whose life has been profoundly shaped by his nine years of active-duty service as a Sergeant and Military Police Officer. Serving from 2000 to 2009, he completed over two years of foreign service, including a deployment to Afghanistan in 2008 where he served in a designated imminent danger pay area. His military career was marked by significant achievements and specialized training, including the Warrior Leaders Course and Special React Team training. For his actions and sacrifices in combat, he was awarded the Purple Heart, the Combat Action Badge, and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, among other honors.
In July 2009, Thompson was honorably discharged due to a permanent disability resulting from a combat-related gunshot wound to the lumbar spine. This catastrophic injury resulted in bilateral lower extremity paraplegia, neurogenic bowel and bladder dysfunction, and chronic neurological impairment. He also sustained a traumatic amputation of the tip of his right index finger and has multiple residual scars from his injuries and subsequent surgeries. Currently recognized by the VA as 100% disabled with a permanent and total status, he receives special monthly compensation for the loss of use of both legs and the loss of anal and bladder sphincter control. Despite these significant challenges, he continues to manage his health through the VA system with the support of the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has surprised United States Army Sergeant Garry William Thompson Jr. with a mortgage-free smart home during the Steel Across America Tour in St. Louis, Missouri, through the Smart Home Program.