Sprinkler Age A Publication of the American Fire Sprinkler Association
On behalf of the American Fire Sprinkler Association, I am honored to express pride in our partnership with Homes For Our Troops (HFOT). This remarkable organization demonstrates unwavering dedication to building and donating mortgage-free, specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post 9/11veterans to empower them to regain some freedom, independence, and dignity. Homes For Our Troops is a privately funded 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. Since its inception in 2004, HFOT has built over 400 homes nationwide. AFSA is the exclusive provider of fire sprinkler systems for HFOT. Their mission perfectly aligns with our commitment to safety and community, reminding us of the importance of creating secure, accessible, safe environments for those who have sacrificed so much while defending our country.
Every year, nearly 4,000 Americans lose their lives in home fires, and 25,000 are injured. The risk is even higher for individuals with physical, mental, or sensory disabilities, including many veterans. Installing a residential fire sprinkler system can reduce the risk of death from home fires by up to 81% by providing lifesaving protection where it is needed most.
The partnership between AFSA and HFOT is championed by Paulene Norwood, executive director of the AFSA Sacramento Chapter, and D’Arcy Montalvo, public relations manager for AFSA and editor of Sprinkler Age. Together, they work with AFSA’s Public Education and Awareness (PE&A) Committee, chaired by AFSA At-Large Director Mindy McCullough Buckley, CFO and co-owner of Allsouth Sprinkler. That national committee reaches out to AFSA member contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, and designers. They graciously donate the installation of home fire sprinkler systems without hesitation. At our January 2026 Quarter 1 national meeting, the PE&A Committee announced that, so far this quarter, 11 homes to be built by HFOT are scheduled to have fire sprinkler systems donated by AFSA members.
On February 7, I attended the Key Ceremony and Flag Raising at the new custom home built for Army CPL Paul Hedge in Tuftonboro, N.H. It was solemn and joyous. Many people braved the very cold and snowy day in tribute to CPL Hedge. The challenging weather amplified the good work of all involved in the project. The executive director of HFOT, Bill Ivy, spoke of the primary importance of the community embracing the veteran and his or her family for lasting happiness and project success. AFSA is proud to be a member of this community.
Promoting public support of wounded veterans is right and true. I am grateful to our members who support Homes For Our Troops, whether through volunteering, raising awareness, or financial contributions. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of veterans and their families, ensuring they have the safe, comfortable homes they deserve. Thank you to Homes For Our Troops for their inspiring work and to everyone who helps advance this vital cause.
To learn more about CPL Hedge, visit hfotusa.org/building-homes/veterans/hedge. To learn more about the Homes For Our Troops organization, visit hfotusa.org.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Paul DeLorie serves as Senior Vice President of Hampshire Fire Protection Co. in Londonderry, New Hampshire. One of New England’s largest merit shop fire sprinkler contractors, Hampshire Fire Protection has built a strong reputation for excellence in the industry. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire, DeLorie brings more than 39 years of experience spanning sprinkler design, estimating, sales, project management, and senior leadership.