PROJECT: 2014 HERO[series]
LOCATION: Grand Rapids, Michigan
VETERAN: Aaron Hale
BRANCH: U.S. Army, U.S. Navy
DESIGNER: Lauren Berndt, Nicole Fuller
VIDEO: N/A
PORTRAITS: Adam Bird
VENUE: GRid70
Aaron served in both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Navy for a combined 14 years which included three tours in the Middle East. On his last deployment in 2011 as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team leader, an IED detonated 30ft. in front of him, leaving him blind but fortunate to be alive.
Determined not to let his injury define him, Aaron has gone on to climb mountains, run marathons, and more, while also inspiring people around the country with his story. Aaron credits the loss of his vision to enabling him to gain a new perspective in life. This new perspective is based upon utilizing the tools, abilities, and opportunities you are blessed with to live a happy, productive, and abundant life – no matter your circumstances.