Imagine channeling the grit of surviving war into crafting an epic pirate ship right in your front yard – that's the heartwarming yet awe-inspiring tale of Bionner Puerta, a combat veteran turning Halloween into an unforgettable adventure in Clarksville, Tennessee. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this whimsical display a brilliant way to heal from trauma, or should veterans prioritize more 'serious' causes? Stick around to explore this story that might just challenge your views on creativity and resilience.
In a remarkable feat of determination, Bionner Puerta, a seasoned Army combat veteran, has meticulously constructed a full-scale pirate ship as a stunning Halloween attraction on his lawn. Working entirely by hand, he assembled it bit by bit, proving that passion and persistence can overcome any lack of expertise. 'I had no clue how to construct a ship,' Puerta shared with WTVF, adding with a chuckle, 'I just tackled it step by step and dove right in.' He elaborated, 'Whenever I spot something cool, I get inspired and start piecing it together.'
This ambitious project traces back a few years when Puerta donned a costume as Jack Sparrow from the beloved 'Pirates of the Caribbean' films for Halloween. A curious trick-or-treater innocently inquired about his missing ship, sparking the idea that would become reality. 'We'd welcome assistance from others in building it, but he figures it out as he goes, learning on the fly,' explained Jennifer Pierce, Puerta's supportive partner.
As a team, Jennifer and Bionner specialize in crafting DIY holiday spectacles designed to dazzle and delight their neighborhood. 'Our goal is to create that jaw-dropping moment when people arrive – something they'll talk about for years,' Pierce noted. What began as a festive Christmas setup has evolved into this thrilling Halloween extravaganza, complete with a massive vessel that looks like it could sail straight out of a blockbuster movie.
And this is the part most people miss: Puerta's motivation runs deeper than mere fun. Having narrowly escaped death three times during his service in Afghanistan, he passionately stresses the value of cherishing every moment. 'I shouldn't even be alive,' he said, his voice trembling with raw emotion. 'As a veteran, I know how fleeting life can be – one instant, and it's over.' This drives him to seize the day, using his talents to make a positive impact. 'I'm all about contributing what I can with my skills,' he remarked. 'My hands are my tools, and building things is my way of giving back.'
Together, the couple is guiding families on a magical fall journey, creating memories that will endure. For added enchantment, Captain Jack Sparrow himself appears on weekends throughout the Halloween season, bringing the pirate theme to life in a way that's both entertaining and educational – think of it as a live lesson in history and adventure for kids, blending fantasy with real-world storytelling.
To give you a better sense of the scale, picture a structure towering over the yard, complete with sails, rigging, and intricate details that could rival professional sets. It's not just a decoration; it's a testament to human ingenuity, showing beginners how even complex projects can start with a simple spark of inspiration. And here's a subtle twist that might stir debate: Some might argue that such creative outlets distract from veterans' mental health needs, while others see it as a powerful form of therapy. What do you think – does building something like this truly help veterans process their experiences, or is it just a fun diversion? Do projects like Puerta's inspire you to try your own DIY dreams? Share your opinions in the comments below – we'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have your own stories to tell!
(Video/photo: WTVF, BIONNER PUERTA, CNN via CNN Newsource) —
A combat veteran in Clarksville, Tennessee, has created a life-size pirate ship as a Halloween display in his front yard.
Bionner Puerta, an Army combat veteran, built the ship by hand, piece by piece.
'I didn't know how to build a ship. I just went at it little by little and went for it,' Puerta told WTVF (https://www.newschannel5.com/news/state/tennessee/montgomery-county/army-combat-veteran-builds-life-size-pirate-ship-halloween-display-at-clarksville-home), later saying, 'I just see cool stuff and then, you know, just start building.'
His journey began a few years ago when he dressed as Jack Sparrow from 'Pirates of the Caribbean' for Halloween, and a trick-or-treater asked him where his ship was.
That's when he decided to build one.
'We would love to have people help us build it, but he himself doesn't know how to do it until he's actually doing it,' Jennifer Pierce, Puerta's partner, said.
WTVF via CNN Newsource
Together, Jennifer and Bionner have created homemade holidays, aiming to leave a lasting impression on their community.
'We made it important to have something where, when they pull up, it's that wow factor and they will never forget it,' Pierce said.
What started as a Christmas display has now transformed into a Halloween spectacle.
Puerta, who nearly lost his life three times while serving in Afghanistan, emphasizes the importance of making memories.
'I'm not supposed to be here,' Puerta said as his voice cracked with emotion. He continued, saying, 'As a vet ... It's important because time is precious and, in a moment's notice, you're not here.'
Puerta says he wants to make the most of life.
'I'm trying to make a difference by, you know, giving as much as I can with what I got. And what I got is my hands, and I could build stuff,' he said.
Together, the couple is helping families set sail into a fall experience that will last a lifetime.
Captain Jack Sparrow makes appearances on weekends during the Halloween season.
See more in the video player above.
