Severely Wounded Heroes

Luis Avila

U.S. Army Captain (Ret.)

U.S. Army Captain Luis Avila grew up in a military family from Metairie, LA. He joined the United States Army in 2000 and became an officer in 2004. In 2011 while leading his team, a mounted improvised explosive device (IED) detonated nearby.

Support Heroes Like Luis

Luis After the Explosion

December 27, 2011

He Was Left Almost Completely Paralyzed.

Luis served five combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. On December 27, 2011, while leading his team, a mounted improvised explosive device (IED) detonated nearby. Three of his fellow soldiers were killed by the blast and two others were severely wounded. Luis suffered an amputation of his left leg, two strokes, two heart attacks, and severe lack of oxygen which caused anoxic brain damage. Ultimately, he was left almost completely paralyzed.

Our Privilege

A New Chapter in Their Specially Adapted Home

The Gary Sinise Foundation was proud to build a custom home for Luis specially adapted to his unique needs.

We've built homes all across the nation for America's most severely wounded heroes. Every home is fully custom and 100% mortgage-free. Learn more about our custom homebuilding programs and support our efforts. Make a donation today.

Wall of Gratitude

Luis Avila

God bless you and thank you brother for your service!!!!

—R. Clark
Washington

Hi LT! It’s me - you know me as SFC Clavijo 2006-2007 VA Team Iraq. You’re the epitome of a soldier and family man. So much respect and honor to have served with you.

—B. Geddis (Clavijo)
Texas

Cpt Avila, thank you for your service. Thank you for coming to sing the national anthem at the Maryland game on March 8. Your story is inspiring and touched my heart. Your performance was my most favorite that I’ve seen.

—A. Fu
Virginia

Dear Captain Avila, as a six year army military police veteran; I thank you and your family for your sacrifices and wish you God’s grace and blessings! 🙏

— . Nixon
Virginia

Hello Luis. I met you tonight in the Marriott lobby bar with Beth. It was an absolute honor and privilege to meet you. You are an inspiration. Claudia too. Meeting you and spending those 15 minutes with you will leave a lifelong impression on me. God bless you! Best. Matt May. Mattmay22@gmail.com

—M. May
Iowa