Our Fallen Hero Foundation

Mission Statement
Our mission is to honor and support our country by providing emotional and financial means to our veterans, active military personnel, their families, and the community.

Aaron’s story
On June 9, 2014, at the age of 19, PFC Aaron Toppen lost his life during a joint operation of Afghan and NATO forces in Afghanistan. Aaron grew up in Mokena, IL, attended Mokena 159 schools and graduated from Lincoln-Way East High School in 2013. From a young age, PFC Aaron Toppen was incredibly patriotic and dreamed of following in the footsteps of both his maternal and paternal grandfathers by enlisting in the military to serve the Country he loved.

PFC Aaron Toppen was an outgoing, friendly, patriotic outdoorsman. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family and friends. He left an impression on everyone he met with his infectious smile and humor.

PFC Toppen was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Bronze Star, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the NATO Medal, the Purple Heart Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge and is recommended for the Medal of Valor.

Family and friends of Aaron established the Our Fallen Hero Foundation in memory of PFC Aaron Toppen in spring of 2018. Our purpose is to be charitable, benevolent and patriotic.

Beneficiary: Pat Tillman Foundation
In 2002, Pat Tillman proudly put his NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals on hold to serve his country. Family and friends established the Pat Tillman Foundation following Pat’s death in April 2004 while serving with the 75th Ranger Regiment in Afghanistan. Created to honor Pat’s legacy of leadership and service, the Pat Tillman Foundation is a national leader in providing academic support and resources to veterans, active-duty service members and their spouses. Through the Tillman Military Scholars program, the foundation annually awards academic scholarships for military veterans and spouses who are committed to a life of service in and out of uniform. To date, the Pat Tillman Foundation has invested nearly $10 million in academic support and scholarships, helping nearly 350 Tillman Military Scholars continue serving our country and communities through their studies in medicine, law, business, government, education and the arts. For more information on the Pat Tillman Foundation, visit: www.pattillmanfoundation.org.