"The Meritage family is extremely proud of Justin," said Wendy Gute, director of customer service. "We can only imagine how hard it is for his young family to not have him around. So, we all came together from every department to make certain his family did not go without, not only this holiday season but throughout the year."

Known for his personable and outgoing manner, Lis, 25, grew up in Las Vegas and attended Cheyenne High School. His position with Meritage Homes, handling warranty requests and inquiries from new home buyers, is being held for him, Gute said. "Whenever he e-mails, we send his messages throughout the company. We're all waiting for his return."

Holding Hunter close, Jessica Lis recalled meeting Justin on a date that was not exactly a blind date.

"We were bowling with a group of friends and we were the only singles there. We laugh together about it now whenever I say, 'I can't believe we met on The Orleans Casino bowling lanes.'"

Deployed since August, Justin's presence is strong among his friends and colleagues, who send care packages and letters abroad whenever they can.

"The one wish I have for him this holiday season is to come back to his family," Meritage President Robb Beville said. "We're very proud of Justin and we're proud of the troops. We wish them all the best and hope they know that all our thoughts are with them."

Meritage is selling in 13 valley neighborhoods in Yellowstone at Mountain's Edge in the southwestern portion of the valley and Northern Terrace at Providence in the northwestern valley. These communities are anchored by residents-only clubhouses for family recreation.

For more information, visit meritagehomes-nv.com.