Rear Adm. Nowakowski visits Omaha veteran housing project

Rear Adm. Michael Nowakowski toured the under-construction Dunham House in Omaha during Navy Week to review a housing project built for combat-wounded veterans. The 30-unit community is designed to improve accessibility, independence and daily support for residents once completed. Why it matters: - The Dunham House is being built to expand veteran-centered housing in Omaha for combat-wounded veterans. - The project is designed to pair accessible living with shared support services that can improve quality of life and long-term independence. - The visit underscored the role of military, nonprofit and community partnerships in supporting veterans after service. What happened: - Wounded Warriors Family Support welcomed Rear Adm. Michael Nowakowski, Deputy Commander of Naval Education and Training Command – Force Development, to the Dunham House during Omaha Navy Week. - Nowakowski toured the facility and met with WWFS leadership to discuss the needs of combat-wounded veterans. - The visit focused on the role the Dunham House will play in serving veterans in Omaha. The details: - The Dunham House is described as a first-of-its-kind residential community for combat-wounded veterans. - The project will include 30 apartment-style residences. - Some units are being designed for veterans with mobility challenges and other service-connected disabilities. - Residents will have access to shared community spaces, dining facilities, fitness areas, laundry services and supportive resources. - WWFS says the community is intended to promote accessibility, community and long-term well-being. - The housing model is meant to let combat-wounded veterans live among peers who understand military service. - Master Gunnery Sgt. Martin Duarte, USMC (Ret.), WWFS outreach director, said the goal is to create a place where veterans can build relationships, maintain independence and preserve dignity. Between the lines: - The project reflects a broader shift toward housing that is tailored to the needs of wounded veterans rather than standard apartment development. - The emphasis on communal spaces suggests WWFS is treating social connection as part of care, not just a nice extra. - Omaha Navy Week gave the project a public platform at a time when veteran housing and accessibility remain persistent needs. What’s next: - The Dunham House remains under construction in Omaha, Nebraska. - WWFS is continuing to develop the project as a housing option for combat-wounded veterans. - More information is available at the Dunham House website .