Hedge Fund Trader Now Calls Sadr City Home

"What it does is help them refurbish their shops, or rehabilitate their stock which they lost," Lugo said.

Sgt. Frank Lugo of the Army reserves is restoring businesses and building bonds of trust in Sadr City.

(Jean Fievet/ ABC)

The U.S. military's rebuilding efforts to repair businesses and broken homes have built bonds of trust with local residents.

At the end of a long day in 120 degree heat, Lugo dined on hot dogs with a fellow soldier. His seat in a mess hall in Sadr City couldn't be farther away from his other life, but he is happy where he is.

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"Far too often in corporate America, everything's about the bottom line and how fast can I get ahead," Lugo said. "Whereas here, making sure that everyone comes home with 10 fingers and 10 toes, and making lives better for the people of Sadr City, is our No. 1 priority."

While Lugo feels a deep connection to the people of Sadr City, he hasn't completely forgotten about the lifestyle he left behind.

"There'll be a time and a place to go to South Beach and drink some mojitos, definitely."