Saws and hammers could be heard all morning Saturday at Sergeant Michael Trost's home in Maryville. It was the sound of hard work and dedication - and was music to Trost's ears.

"These people are showing their patriotism in a tangible way. I guess they want to say thank you and this is their way of saying thank you," said Master Sergeant Michael Trost, a member of the 489th Army Reserve Unit in Knoxville.

Trost was seriously injured when he was shot multiple times in Afghanistan in February. He lost his thumb and index finger, and suffered nerve damage in his leg.

"I've got what's called drop foot and I have no control from my ankle to my toe. It's all numb," said Trost.

The New Hope-Blount County Children's Advocacy Center said it wanted to help Trost because he's helped the group in the past. So "Team Build for Trost" decided to finish the second floor of his barn - turning it into a "man cave", where he'll be able to watch sports and entertain.

"Inside, we have hard-wood floors. There's just one main room with a kitchen, we have a bar area and a bathroom," said Lane Steele, with the advocacy group.

Members of the 489th who serve with Trost built a deck for the barn Saturday.

"Anything for a fellow soldier - always there to support. But of course, because of the whole wounded-warrier thing, we definitely wanted to extend what we do have," said Sergeant Korey Lowe.

Volunteers also finished landscaping and fixing the Trost's front steps.

During a special ceremony, state senator Doug Overbey read a resolution passed in Trost's honor and Trost returned the state flag he'd flown over his compound in Afghanistan to Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell, who said it will be displayed in the courthouse.

Trost said he's grateful for everyone's help as he recovers from his injuries.

"What can you say besides Thank you, thank you, thank you. I don't know that I can ever give enough thanks yous," said Trost.

Volunteers said it's heros like Trost who deserve the gratitude.