HOLLY SPRINGS, Miss. — Drew “Preacher” Smith, a 99-year-old U.S. Army veteran and World War II hero who served under General George S. Patton, is getting a new home after a tornado destroyed his residence in April 2025.
Smith, who earned three Purple Hearts and three Bronze Stars, will celebrate his 100th birthday this year. Thanks to the efforts of Purple Heart Homes, retired Coast Guard Chief Robert Luna, and several partner organizations, construction has begun this month on a brand-new, accessible home.
Luna, who met Smith in 2024 while walking across America to raise awareness for veteran mental health, helped connect Smith with resources through his nonprofit, AL2LA. He partnered with Purple Heart Homes and contractor David Risher of Risher Inc., with support from The Home Depot Foundation.
The local fire department cleared the tornado-damaged home with a controlled burn earlier this month. Now, Smith is looking forward to the future as his new home takes shape. Luna is also assisting with furnishings to help the war hero settle back in.
