Honoring a Hero: Holiday Builders & Building Homes for Heroes

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class John Goudie: A Story of Service & Sacrifice

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class (SFC) John Goudie comes from a proud family with a long history of military service. Driven by a deep sense of duty, he joined the elite 7th Special Forces Group, embarking on some of the most dangerous missions in hostile territories.

During a combat mission in Afghanistan, SFC Goudie was shot multiple times at point-blank range by an Afghan Special Forces soldier. Despite severe injuries to his shoulders and chest, he demonstrated incredible resilience, undergoing a shoulder replacement and later facing the amputation of his left leg. Even after these life-altering wounds, he remained committed to his mission, deploying twice more to Afghanistan in 2015 and 2016—this time on a prosthetic leg.

His injuries included a humerus replacement, internal wounds, muscle tissue loss, a traumatic brain injury (TBI), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For his extraordinary service and sacrifice, SFC Goudie was honored with numerous military awards, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal (twice), the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Army Commendation medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (twice), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Professional Development Ribbon (three times), Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal (twice), Special Forces Tab, Parachutist Badge and the Expert Marksmanship Badge.

A New Home, A New Beginning

On October 2, 2021, Holiday Builders, in partnership with the non-profit organization Building Homes for Heroes, had the honor of gifting a brand-new, mortgage-free home to SFC Goudie, his wife Kristi, and their family. The home, located in Windswept Estates in Freeport, Florida, was built with love, gratitude, and the mission of giving back to those who have given so much.

The Gifting Ceremony was a moving tribute, attended by officials from Building Homes for Heroes, members of the community, and Holiday Builders team members. The moment symbolized more than just a house—it was a foundation for healing, stability, and a bright future for the Goudie family.

Earlier that year, a groundbreaking ceremony was held, allowing Holiday Builders, Building Homes for Heroes, and local residents to come together in support of this deserving family. While construction was already underway, the event was a meaningful celebration of the community’s appreciation for our nation’s heroes.

Building Homes, Building Hope

At Holiday Builders, we believe in more than just building houses. We believe in creating homes that change lives. Our partnership with Building Homes for Heroes reflects our deep commitment to honoring and supporting those who have sacrificed for our freedom.

Building Homes for Heroes is dedicated to providing injured veterans with mortgage-free homes, along with essential support services to help them build a brighter future. Their mission is one of gratitude, ensuring that our nation’s heroes receive the comfort and security they deserve.

Through this incredible partnership, we were privileged to be part of SFC Goudie’s courageous journey. It was an honor to hand him the keys to his new home, a place where he and his family can create new memories and embrace a future filled with possibility.

Watch the videos below to witness this inspiring journey—from groundbreaking to the final home gifting ceremony.

THANK YOU TO THE SPONSORS!