Foundation For Fallen Mokena Veteran Sponsors 'Hometown Hero' Program

MOKENA, IL — The family of a Mokena man killed while deployed in 2014 is seeking to return the support shown to them after his death.

PFC Aaron Toppen died in June 2014, in an incident of friendly fire while stationed in the Zabul province of Afghanistan. Toppen had been on a special mission to secure the area for an upcoming election, and died alongside four other Americans and an Afghan interpreter. He was 19 years old.

PFC Toppen was posthumously 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 the Medal of Valor.

His death left his hometown stunned and heartbroken, but spurred many to action in his memory, and in support of the veteran community. Family and friends, intent on paying forward the incredible support received from Toppen's local community, began holding fundraising events within months of Aaron’s death, and continued to do so until officially forming the Our Fallen Hero Foundation (a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization) in the spring of 2018.

The foundation is now sponsoring the Village of Mokena's Hometown Hero banner program, an effort to recognize local veterans for their service.

"The support we’ve gotten from Mokena over the years has just been so heartwarming," his sister Amy Toppen told Patch. "We’ve always sought ways we could pay it forward. Tying back into the community, but also wanting to acknowledge the broader military community, and all of those who have served us."

Banners will be displayed for two years, from approximately Memorial Day through early fall. The 37 banners will appear on Front Street in downtown Mokena, from Wolf Road east to Schoolhouse Road. Aaron previously appeared on a banner two years ago, Toppen said.

The foundation's sponsorship of the program means the fee to have a banner feature a veteran's name is covered for families. As of the Feb. 19, 26 of the 37 banners had been spoken for, Toppen said.

Toppen said at an estimated $200 per banner, it's a significant investment for the nonprofit.

"We’re a small foundation," Toppen said. "A decent amount of investment, but giving back to what the community has done to support us over the years."

The foundation's major fundraising events—a 5K and a motorcycle/car ride—have stayed successful each year since they started, Toppen said.

"To consistently have engagement from the community and participating in those events, we just really appreciate it," she added.

Those interested in having a banner created in a veteran's name should apply online. Applicants must include a high-resolution photograph of the honored Veteran in military uniform. Digital photos will be accepted. Photos in military uniform are preferred but not required. The deadline to submit an application is March 31.

A copy of the Veterans DD Form 214 (certificate of release or discharge from active duty) or other official documentation confirming the Veterans military service is also required. Service members must have received a discharge classified as an Honorable Discharge or its equivalent. This must be verified by DD214 or DD215.

Upcoming events supporting the Our Fallen Hero Foundation include:

• March Mulligans - March 22, at The 19th Hole, Mokena
• Motorcycle & Car Ride - August 16, at Manteno Sportsmen's Club, Manteno
• 5K Run / Walk - Sept. 20, at Willowview Park, Mokena