Rimpf gets keys to new home

Dr. Glen Gilbert, interim vice chancellor for university advancement, presents ECU graduate and wounded warrior Nathan Rimpf with a Pirates helmet. (Photo by Emily Packard)

Wounded warrior Nathan Rimpf has moved into his new home in the Renaissance Park neighborhood in south Raleigh.

The traditional-style home, with a double porch and blue shutters, is the sixth home constructed by a partnership between the Home Builders Association of Raleigh-Wake County and the Triangle Veterans Association.

Four paratroopers who parachuted in as fireworks exploded delivered the keys to Rimpf’s new home.

Speaking to a large crowd of family and ECU friends at the key ceremony on Nov. 7, Rimpf said he does not regret his sacrifice. “This isn’t exactly what I dreamed – it’s way beyond that,” he said. “Look at this out here. Who wouldn’t give a pair of ugly feet to defend these people? It’s been a very awesome 487 days, to be honest.”

After graduating from ECU’s ROTC program, Rimpf became an Army Ranger. He stepped on an improvised explosive device while on patrol in Anbar Province and lost his lower legs.

Cadets from ECU’s ROTC program, including seniors who were freshmen when Rimpf was a senior, attended the ceremony. Glenn Gilbert, acting vice chancellor of university advancement, also spoke.

Rimpf walks easily on prosthetic legs but he said standing for long periods tires him. The stairs of his new home have a wheelchair lift.

— Steve Tuttle