Dickies recognizes Marine hero

Published Oct. 31, 2013
By Airman 1st Class Sean M. Crowe
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Jason Simms, retired Marine sergeant, received recognition as the 2013 Dickies American Hero of the Year, Oct. 29, 2013, at the Exchange lobby here.

Dickies, in cooperation with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service, presented Simms with a $25,000 check in light of his meritorious military service during a deployment to Fallujah, Iraq, in 2004 and his dedication to serving the military through his work with the Wounded Warrior Project.

"It's a day to recognize the courage of Marine Sgt. Simms," said Col. James Hodges, 87th Air Base Wing, commander. "He exemplifies selflessness as he continues to serve bravely today."
Simms' wife, Alana, nominated him without telling him, leaving him clueless about the award or nomination until Dickies notified him about winning the title. Nominees and award recipients are service members who have exemplified heroic qualities to their family members or friends who nominated them.

Simms claimed the service members with whom he patrolled and service members who made the ultimate sacrifice are the real heroes, said Air Force Maj. Gen. Joseph S. Ward, AAFES deputy director.

Alana cited her husband's service during his deployment by noting the heroic qualities he displayed. Simms survived an improvised-explosive-device attack while on a patrol with other Marines during his deployment, which resulted in a recovery process including more than 20 surgeries and physical therapy. He medically retired from the Marines and continues to serve with the Navy's Human Resource Center and the Wounded Warrior Project to assist wounded warriors like him find gainful employment after separating from the military.

"The credit I've received for this award is overwhelming," said Simms. "I owe all of my appreciation to my wife and children who always support me."

Simms explained to the ceremony attendees that he planned to use the money to continue working with the Wounded Warrior Project and spend time with his newborn who is due in May 2014.

"There are so many American heroes still fighting at home and abroad and I would not be where I am today without their continued sacrifices," said Simms.