more about our heros

2011 HERO

  SSgt. Kelly joined the Army Reserve in 2000 and transferred to the Regular Army in 2006. He served three tours in Iraq between 2003 and 2008. In 2008, while traveling in a convoy, Jeff was injured by mortar fire and a RPG. Enduring a severe injury to his left leg, he nevertheless completed his mission. After many failed attempts at leg rehabilitation, a spinal cord stimulator was implanted to relieve his pain and SSgt. Kelly was told, in so many words, to "live with it". In addition to other injuries, the leg is now dying and in the future will most likely require amputation below the knee. Jeff grew up in the Orlando area and graduated from Westside Tech in Winter Garden. He is an Eagle Scout and, in recognition of his outstanding leadership ability, he has been approved for membership in the prestigious Sgt. Audie Murphy Club. This honor is earned by fewer than one percent of the Army's NCOs. His wife Michelle was born and grew up in Kissimmee. They and their daughters, Jade (6) and Lindsey (3), currently reside in Clermont, Florida with Jeff's parents.

2010 HERO

  Sgt. Tavera was deployed to Iraq in the autumn of 2007 at 19 years of age. In March of 2008, shortly before he was to return to the U.S., Joel was severely wounded when five rockets hit his Humvee. He lost his right leg and four fingers on his left hand, as well as the sight in both eyes. In addition, he suffered head trauma and fourth-degree burns to 60% of his body. This remarkable young man is determined to heal in spite of the obstacles he faces. He has been awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his service.

Sgt. Tavera and his family expect to occupy their new home late in 2011.

2009 HERO

  Army Staff Sergeant William Castillo, bombed out of his Humvee, fighting his way back to the burning vehicle to save two soldiers still in it, got shot five times, twice in the chest (vested), once in the head (helmeted), once in the leg, and once under the chin – the last shot exiting through his mouth.  He pressed on, bleeding and in blinding pain from a cracked skull.  Reaching the Humvee driver, a RPG rocket sliced into the truck, severing William’s leg above the knee.  He alone survived the mission.  SSgt. William Castillo, his wife Katherine, and their four children currently reside in Central Florida.

2008 HERO

  Sergeant Joshua Cope lost both legs and the use of his right hand while on his second tour in Iraq.  Two of his buddies were killed when an IED exploded under their Humvee.  Joshua , his wife Erica and three children, two girls and one boy: Laney 6, Cadence 2, Braydon 4 months reside in Oakland, Florida.