Montana Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Graber answered the call to serve his country in 1979. Growing up, he enjoyed a happy childhood, spending time working in his family’s meat shop while developing a lifelong passion for cars and outdoor water sports.
After serving four years in the United States Marine Corps, Graber continued his military career by enlisting in the Montana Army National Guard. Throughout his years of service, the camaraderie among his fellow service members was what he treasured most. Rising through the ranks from enlisted Soldier to Chief Warrant Officer 3 remains one of his proudest accomplishments.
Following his deployment to Iraq, Graber developed service-connected Stage IV cancer as a result of exposure to burn pits. He also suffered a severe leg injury while exiting a Black Hawk helicopter that was taking enemy fire. Over time, complications from that injury led to the amputation of his leg below the knee.
Today, Graber continues to enjoy working on cars, a passion he has carried with him since his youth. He and his family are deeply grateful for the support they received from the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which provided the home modifications they needed and paid off their mortgage, allowing them to focus on what matters most: their health, family, and future.
When asked what he would want people to remember most about him and his story, Montana Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Graber offers a simple but powerful reflection:
“We all gave some; some gave all.”
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided Montana Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer Three Robert Graber with a mortgage-free smart home through the Smart Home Program.