Darius Rucker is known for his philanthropy outside his music career, most notably his Darius and Friends annual benefit concert for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. But the singer took his generosity even further on Wednesday (May 13) when he surprised a veteran with a brand new home.

The day was actually Rucker’s birthday, but rather than treating himself, he treated Specialist Daniel Branham to not only tickets to his concert, but a new, mortgage-free home in Mt. Pleasant, S.C. live on Today. The gift is only one of 11 homes Rucker will be giving to veterans while on his Southern Style tour this summer through the Military Warriors Support Foundation.

“Daniel’s an American hero. The things he did when he was deployed, he’s just an amazing guy,” Rucker lauds.

Ret. Lt. General Leroy Sisco from the Military Warriors Support Foundation helped present the home to Branham, as hosts Hoda Kotb and Kathy Lee Gifford officially handed over the ceremonial key.

Branham was clearly taken by surprise — on live television, no less — but the “no kidding!” he managed to get out and the smile on his face was enough to say it all.

Rucker kicked off his tour at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, N.J. this week. He will be traveling around the country through June 8, when he will end with the Darius and Friends concert in Nashville. The charity show is a unique experience, and you can win a trip to see it! Learn more here.

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