The Makaafi Family

U.S. Marine Cpl. William Makaafi

U.S. Marine Cpl. William Makaafi grew up in a home that valued family above all else and he has carried that belief with him his entire life.

Makaafi witnessed a lot of troubling things during his service in the United States Marine Corps. On April 30, 2009 while deployed in Iraq, Makaafi's unit suffered the loss of a soldier killed in action, which was devastating for him and the rest of his unit. Not even a year later, while in Afghanistan, Makaafi’s battalion lost 25 men in the line of duty. Many of the soldiers lost were men who completed bootcamp with Makaafi.

Adjusting to life after returning home from the military has been very rough for Makaafi. The emotional toll of losing so many friends and fellow soldiers has made everyday life extremely difficult. Additionally, Makaafi has struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI) with migraines and memory loss and chronic lumbar strain which has made it impossible for him to maintain employment.

For his unwavering commitment to his country, Makaafi received decorations including a Marine Good Conduct Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with one Star, a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, combat action ribbon and Iraq Campaign Medal among other accolades.

The Makaafi family currently lives in California with hopes of moving to Texas to be closer to family as well as increased healthcare options. The family is excited for the move, remembering something Makaafi’s mother had told him years ago, “home is where your family is.”

Operation Finally Home along with Scott Felder Homes and Tiemann Land and Cattle Development are honored to provide the Makaafi family with a custom-built, mortgage-free home located at Blackhawk in Pflugerville, Texas.