Born in the state of Minnesota and raised in Missouri, Legrand Strickland, a retired U.S. Army Sergeant, embarked on his military journey just two years after completing high school. Following his initial enlistment, he transitioned into the National Guard as an Infantry Rifleman. During his time in the National Guard, he pursued a college education and earned a degree in graphic design.

Upon re-enlistment, Legrand became a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. On February 2, 2010, while returning from a mission in Zabul, Afghanistan, a harrowing incident unfolded. An improvised explosive device (IED) struck the vehicle of his commanding officer in front of him. Remarkably, the commander survived the explosion and sought refuge in Legrand's vehicle. As they made their escape, another devastating explosive impact occurred, taking the lives of Legrand's commander and the vehicle's driver. In critical condition, Legrand was evacuated to the nearest medical facility, then transferred to Germany, and finally to Ft. Sam Houston Brooke Army Medical Center. His injuries included bilateral above-knee amputations and a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Under the R.I.S.E. Program, Compass Design Build had the privilege of building Legrand and his family a specially adapted smart home. In the face of adversity, Legrand has remained steadfast in his rehabilitation efforts, using the customized features of his new home to regain his independence.