Today we’d like to introduce you to Ricky Chaffin Jr.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am the founder of Operation Dog Tags and House Keys, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting veterans in need. Born in California, I earned the nickname “TANK” from my parents, a testament to my tenacity and willingness to face challenges head-on, often quite literally. As a young kid, i was initially upset with the name until my parents introduced me to the film “Kelly’s Heroes,” which ignited a sense of pride in the nickname, reassuring me that i wasn’t being compared to a fish tank.
My family relocated to Texas during my childhood, where I proudly embraced my identity as a Texan. Despite growing up amidst challenges such as violence, drugs, and alcoholism, i emerged with a strong resolve, never succumbing to the temptations that surrounded me. My commitment to a drug-free life is a remarkable achievement that I hold close to my heart, especially given my family history.
Coming from a family with a deep-rooted military legacy, I was unable to serve in the armed forces due to medical conditions caused by a motorcycle wreck I had gotten into June 21st 2014 where I flatlined 2 times for over 30 seconds and twisted my spine. Nevertheless, my passion for my country and its servicemen and women has remained unwavering. From a young age, I actively engaged in fundraisers and initiatives aimed at supporting the military community. This passion culminated in the establishment of Red White and Build Remodeling. At Red White and Build Remodeling, we proudly specialize in serving veterans with top-quality home remodeling services, including custom cabinets, countertops, flooring, roofing, cement work, painting, tile installation, and expertly crafted decks and patio covers. As a company that deeply values our troops, we go beyond craftsmanship by giving back—10% of every job sold is donated to Operation Dog Tags and House Keys. With every project, we aim to enhance the lives of those who’ve served, offering both beautiful homes and meaningful support to the veteran community.
My heritage adds a unique dimension to my story. I am a direct descendant of the Hatfields from the infamous Hatfields and McCoys feud as well as directly related to notable military figures, including General George S. Patton and General Mercer, who fought alongside General Washington. This rich lineage fuels my patriotic spirit, evident in the decorations of my home and truck, both adorned with American flags, symbols of pride, and messages like “SUPPORT OUR TROOPS.”
In April 2024, I married a beautiful military brat named Katherine Marie, marking a new chapter in my life. Shortly after I discovered my true calling: creating Operation Dog Tags and House Keys. Witnessing how the country has let down its veterans by denying them the essential services they need, I reached out to Army veterans Bryan Piper and Nick Laurent to form this not-for-profit. Together, we laid the groundwork for the organization, driven by a shared commitment to helping others which is rooted from our sense of service through our christian beliefs.
Perseverance paid off when, within just seven days of applying for the necessary paperwork, Operation Dog Tags and House Keys was officially formed. Seven weeks later, the organization was recognized as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, allowing it to operate as a charitable entity—an achievement we attribute to our faith in God and the guidance of the Bible.
With my heart, blood, sweat, and tears invested in this mission, I am dedicated to ensuring that veterans receive the support and resources they deserve. Through Operation Dog Tags and House Keys, we aim to honor their sacrifices and make a meaningful difference in their lives, embodying the spirit of service that has defined our journey. I am working tirelessly alongside my business partners to build multiple communities that will house veterans as they transition to civilian life. The first location is planned to break ground in Midlothian, Texas, where we will offer housing, mental and physical health resources, job placement assistance, and spiritual guidance amongst creating a community of like minded camaraderie.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey thus far has been fraught with challenges, yet remarkably fruitful. To have achieved formal recognition in a mere seven days, and to hear that securing tax-exempt status in under two months is considered an extraordinary feat, fills me with profound gratitude towards divine providence. I attribute these milestones wholly to the grace of God.
Nevertheless, our mission persists as we diligently seek contributions, donations and strive to establish and accomplish our designated objectives. Our ultimate aim is to effect transformative change in the lives of others. We are blue-collar individuals, unaccustomed to soliciting financial assistance or support, given our ingrained ethos as self-reliant laborers. This transition has presented our most formidable obstacle to date.
However, we are immensely encouraged by the unwavering backing of our loved ones, family, friends, and church community—an invaluable foundation of strength. Our goal is to amplify our message, extending love and solidarity to our valiant troops who serve with such dedication.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Here is our Mission…
-Briefing
I hope this message resonates deeply with you. Today, I stand before you to present an inspiring opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of our nation’s heroes—veterans transitioning from military to civilian life. I introduce you to Operation Dog Tags and House Keys, a revolutionary non-profit organization dedicated to creating a nurturing community that empowers veterans with the support they need to thrive.
-The Mission
At Operation Dog Tags and House Keys, our mission is clear: to establish a safe and supportive environment that goes beyond mere housing. Our vision includes creating a unique tiny home community known as The Barracks, where veterans can find not just shelter but a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and purpose. We aim to provide comprehensive services, including career placement, spiritual guidance, and emotional support, ensuring that every veteran has the tools needed for a successful transition.
-Our Requirement
Returning to civilian life is often fought with challenges for veterans. Many face difficulties accessing VA services, finding stable housing, and setting up an added support system. Our initiative requirement addresses these challenges head-on, fostering a community where veterans can connect, heal, and grow together.
-Our Strategy
We will house approximately 200 veterans within the first two years. As soon as we hit our target fundraising goal, we have carefully selected 2 locations: one in Midlothian, Texas, the late Chris Kyle’s backyard, and with strong leadership and patriotism of these amazing people the 2nd set of “Barracks” will be in the beautiful state of South Carolina. Our community will not merely be a place to live but a vibrant hub of monthly gatherings, themed events, free life services, and essential support such as job placement assistance and counseling.
-Tactical Positive Effects
By supporting Operation Dog Tags and House Keys, you are not just donating to a cause; you are investing in the dignity, respect, and future of those who have bravely served our country. Your contribution will directly facilitate the creation of a community where veterans can thrive, ensuring they receive the emotional and psychological support they deserve.
Join us in this vital mission. Your support can transform lives and create a legacy of gratitude for our veterans. Together, we can forge a future where our heroes are not only celebrated but also equipped to navigate the journey of civilian life with confidence and purpose.
I would be honored to discuss this opportunity further and explore ways we can collaborate to bring this vision to life. Thank you for considering this chance to make a tangible impact in the lives of our veterans through Operation Dog Tags and House Keys. Together, let’s build a brighter future for those who have given so much for our freedom.
“What sets us apart…
While thousands of nonprofits exist, we are not just a organization providing a single service like housing, mental or physical health resources, job placement, or spiritual guidance. Instead, we offer all of these and more. Many foundations and charities focus on one or two specific goals—such as the remarkable Wounded Warrior Project, which prioritizes physical health, or Mission 22, a commendable foundation dedicated to combating veteran suicide caused by PTSD and a lack of belonging. Local churches emphasize the ultimate goal of surrendering your life to God and securing your place in heaven for eternity. Hope Heroes assists veterans in finding employment, Habitat for Humanity builds homes for those in need, and Tunnels to Towers supports wounded and homeless veterans.
We stand apart by combining all of these services under one roof. The military trains you to follow orders, and after putting you through immense challenges, it releases you into the world—often without a sense of belonging or direction. We’re here to fill that gap, offering comprehensive support to help veterans rebuild their lives.”
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Here’s a polished and enhanced version of your 5-year and 10-year plan:
“Our 5-Year and 10-Year Vision
Over the next five years, our goal is to provide housing for more than 600 veterans while offering guidance and support to thousands more, addressing their unique needs. Within a decade, our ultimate ambition is to establish ‘Barracks’ facilities in ten different locations across the country. These hubs will serve as comprehensive support centers, empowering veterans to thrive and preventing them from falling into lifestyles that could hinder their ability to become positive, impactful members of their communities.” our goal is to “Make Veterans A Priority Again” while providing “A Tactical Transition To Civilian Living”
Pricing:
- $5
- $15
- $25
- $50
- $100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dogtagsandhousekeys.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogtagsandhousekeys/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ricky.chaffinjr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricky-chaffin-616220280/
- Twitter: https://x.com/DogTagsHouseKey
- Yelp: https://givebutter.com/kDDYdC
- Soundcloud: https://www.tiktok.com/@dog.tags.and.house.keys
- Other: https://www.dafdirect.org/DAFDirect/daflink?_dafdirect_settings=OTk0ODMzMTk1XzIxMTFfZTliMzY0YTEtZDA1Yi00NWI3LWJmYmUtYjJiOGQxNzRjZWIx&designatedText=&amountValue=
Image Credits
Miss Greater Carolina, South Carolina (The Brunette) Mary Kimball Osborn
Reagan McMahon (The Blonde)
Nick Laurent Co-Founder (The Cowboy @ the Texas capital)
