SCHEELS HOMETOWN HERO – JARED POPPE
CLICK PLAY and JOIN US in celebrating the Scheels (Springfield, IL) Hometown Hero for December, Jared Poppe!
Jared Poppe entered United States Marine Corps Basic Military Training in July 2008, from Kappa, IL. After completing basic and specialized training, he was assigned to Infantry. He deployed to Afghanistan to serve in Operation Enduring Freedom where he was injured in combat on June 07, 2011. While serving in the Marine Corps, Jared received the following commendations: Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon (Afghanistan), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal (3 Stars), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Letter of Appreciation, NATO-Medal-ISAF Afghanistan, Expert Rifle, Marksman Pistol, and Good Conduct Medal.
HOOAH Deer Hunt for Heroes first became acquainted with Jared, several years ago, when he was a guest at McLean County deer camp. During that camp, he worked alongside volunteers, helped track & remove harvested deer from the field, pulled a stuck UTV out of the creek, and provided input on how to safely assist physically-limited hunters with adaptive needs. It quickly became apparent people were drawn to Jared. His prosthetic legs are an outward sign of his service and sacrifice. As a result, individuals often cautiously approach him with reverence and sympathy. Jared’s relaxed, friendly demeanor readily cuts through the awkwardness. He has a genuine personality which puts others at ease. Soon after meeting someone new, he is conversing, laughing, and connecting with them. These characteristics make him a great mentor for Veterans. Over the years, Jared has helped HOOAH Deer Hunt for Heroes at deer camp, fishing events, sports shows, and fundraisers. He consistently exhibits a magnetic personality, kindness, compassion, strong work ethic, and selfless service toward assisting Veterans. Subsequently, in 2020, HOOAH Deer Hunt for Heroes created a fishing program for Jared to spearhead. The program is called HOOAH Heroes Fishing. Jared fishes with other disabled Veterans in tournaments, social trips, and overnight adventures. These outings are one-on-one, or just a couple guests, which creates an opportunity for Jared to mentor in a close setting. The program is largely self-funded through sponsors and special events. However, Jared conducts the fishing trips solo with minimal physical assistance from HOOAH Deer Hunt for Heroes staff. He preps, pulls, launches, maneuvers, fishes, and loads the boat all while operating on two prosthetic legs. This examples, in and of itself, speaks volumes to his tough, positive attitude, able-bodied approach in spite of his situation. Jared is an exemplary role model for others – Veteran and civilian.
