The Lilley Family

U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Jason Lilley 

It was a traumatic event in his childhood that called U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Jason Lilley to serve his country. At only four years old, he saved his mother’s life. The feeling of heroism Lilley felt that day led him to the military with an objective to help others.   

In early 2001, Lilley enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Just months into his service, he watched the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on America helplessly, knowing he would soon be called to combat to serve his nation. Much like the events of his early life, despite the circumstances, he felt prideful that he would be given the opportunity to fight for justice and help others.

After a deployment to Iraq in 2003, Lilley was immediately redeployed with his unit to Okinawa, Japan. While running a physical fitness test Lilley heard a loud and abrupt ‘pop’ in his knee, and knew something was wrong. In seeking medical help for the injury, Lilley endured 25 separate operations, including five complete knee replacements, which ultimately ended his military career after he was forced to medically separate from active duty in January 2007.

For his fearless service, Lilley received a Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal and a Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Service Medal, among other accolades.

After the failed knee surgeries, and a shoulder injury causing him to become unemployed, Lilley spent years hoping to have his leg amputated so he could move on and get back to providing for his family. Lilley underwent amputation surgery in 2020. Although he knows there’s a long journey ahead, he’s excited to be able to spend time with his family pain-free.

The West Texas Hero Homes program and their build team worked with Operation Finally Home to provide the Lilley family with a custom-built, mortgage-free home in the Lubbock, Texas area.