U.S. Army veteran Kevin A. N. Bone thought all he had to do to win an Andre Johnson signed football was answer a few Texans trivia questions.
And to him, that was awesome.
Little did he know he'd be getting a lot more than some autographed memorabilia.
As Bone looked up at the NRG Stadium videoboard to answer his final trivia question, the screen read:
"Who is the recipient of a custom-built, mortgage-free home courtesy of Operation FINALLY HOME, FMC Technologies and the Houston Texans?"
A. YOU
B. YOU
C. YOU
"I'm not sure if I fully read the question," Bone said following the announcement. "I saw 'Operation FINALLY HOME' and I was like, 'What is going on here?' because they set me up pretty good.
"I'm just so thankful. I'm so thankful to be back home in Texas. God Bless Texas and God Bless Houston."
This gift came right in time for Christmas and the day after Bone's official retirement after 28 years of service. He and his wife, Carolina, will be awarded the custom-built, mortgage-free home in the King Crossing community in Katy, Texas. PulteGroup's Built to Honor program will lead construction of the project.
As if to cap off the moment, the Texans scored a touchdown seconds after Bone received the good news.
"That was a gift from above," he said.
The Houston Texans organization is committed to giving back to veterans for their time in service. This will be the fourth home the Texans have supported with Operation FINALLY HOME, with the help of FMC Technologies.
"We are honored to help change the life of a veteran who has wholeheartedly dedicated himself to serving our country," said Texans President Jamey Rootes. "Each opportunity we get to give back to our American heroes is one that we make every effort to take full advantage of."
Bone joined the military in 1987 as an Artillery Forward Observer. He was involved in various combat missions, including tours to Panama (1989—90), South America (1991—95), Iraq (2007) and Afghanistan (2008). The physical and emotional strain of war took a toll on Bone's overall health. While stationed in Germany from 2012 to 2013, Bone spent most of his time in and out of medical appointments and surgeries, eventually transferring to the Warrior Transition Unit in August 2013.
"I just want to say thank you so much," Bone said through tears as he held Carolina close. "We are so appreciative. This is unreal. I thank everyone."
No, thank you for your service.
