Three thousand people packed the Dyson Baudo Center Thursday evening with one common goal, building hometown hero Kyle Hockenberry a Smart Home.

With help from people like Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band, it looks like Army Specialist Hockenberry's dream is soon to become a reality.

No one was turned away at the door, as organizers had to put out extra seats to accommodate the capacity crowd.

Everyone had a good time, especially Mr. Sinise and Kyle.

Organizers say building this house, and saying thanks to Kyle, is a community effort:

"Because we're building...and YOU'RE building...together with Gary Sinise, The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, and Marietta, Ohio, America... Is going to build a house for your hero, right here, Army Specialist (--give him a hand--) Kyle Hockenberry. Are we going to build him a beautiful house?"

Although a complete total of the funds raised is not yet available, some groups have helped raise record amounts.

Among them are the Marietta AM & PM Rotary Clubs, raising $37,000, including more than $5,000 in Tee-shirt sales alone.

Nationally known artist Scott Labaido speed painted an incredible image of the American Flag. It was auctioned for $6000 to the audience.