Operation Finally Home gave U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Stephen Netzley the keys to his new mortgage-free home July 9 in the Bridgeland community. The Cy-Fair Fire Department led Netzley and his daughter to their new home, where they were greeted by Houston Texans cheerleaders, the mascot and defensive lineman Jacob Martin.

“We’re truly humbled by everyone’s kindness and generosity,” Netzley said. “Bridgeland is a wonderful community, and we are grateful to be welcomed by so many welcoming neighbors.”

Netzley joined the military alongside his brothers in 2005, where he served until 2009, when he was medically discharged due to escalating back and leg pains, according to a news release. Netzley has been awarded an Army’s Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Action Badge and a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, among other accolades, for his service, officials said.

Operation Finally Home partnered with the Greater Houston Builders Association, Perry Homes and the Howard Hughes Corp. to build the home. Gallery Furniture and H-E-B also contributed to the event by stocking the home with new furniture and groceries.

“To play any role in helping them get a fresh start after their service is just amazing,” said Lee Kirgan, vice president of project management for Operation Finally Home. “I don’t even have the words to describe it.”

Netzley’s current plans are to get a degree in social work and work with other veterans.