Christmas came early to the home of a Westport veteran Saturday. An army of volunteers rolled up their sleeves to put a new roof over the head of World War II veteran, Clayton Chalfant.
“I couldn’t believe it. Unbelievable how they do this. No words to describe it,” said Chalfant.
An Army veteran who served in Europe during the war, the 92-year-old was left temporarily speechless by the generosity of a stranger.
“Marvelous. Give me some adjectives. It’s just wonderful. It’s just amazing, I’m so grateful,” he added.
Hebron Roofer Klaus Larsen started the “Santa Klaus” project to help our military men and women. He gives a free roof to a veteran each a month.
“What an opportunity on Veterans Day to give a roof away to a WWII veteran. It’s just absolutely awesome and a great way to give back for what he’s done for us,” said Larsen, owner of Klaus Larsen Roofing.
The project brought Larsen full circle. A native of Denmark, he’s thankful to America’s military for liberating and rebuilding his home country after World War II.
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“The Danes never, never forgotten that. So, for me coming over here and being able to give back to a WWII veteran is just very special to me and my family,” Larsen explained.
“My dad has been so involved in this town for many many years and it’s such an honor to have him recognized,” added his daughter Daun Van Sant.
Chalfant’s in-laws actually built their home back in the 50’s. The family had tried to patch up the roof, but they needed a new one and couldn’t afford it.
“I’d have to take a loan, an equity loan, which we were gonna do,” Chalfant explained.
“Times were tough, you know. And, it’s been a blessing, such a blessing for us,” added Van Sant.
Members of the Westport fire and police departments volunteered to help with the project. Seeing the community’s effort, this unexpected but much needed helping hand, brought tears to his daughter’s eyes.
“He deserves every bit of it. He’s a strong, wonderful father. I couldn’t ask for a better father,” she said.
