Our Fallen Hero Foundation: Motorcycle & Car Run

This event last took place on Aug 17th, 2024
7:00 AM CDT ( 700R)

What: OUR FALLEN HERO FOUNATIMOTORCYCLE AND CAR RUN

Join Our Fallen Hero Foundation and dignitaries with police escorts as riders follow a scenic route beginning at the Manteno Sportsmen’s Club and travel thru the Abe Lincoln Cemetery in Elwood. The run inspires respect for all veterans as it winds through the huge military cemetery.

The ride is followed by a cookout at the club on beautiful Lake Manteno (mantenosportsmensclub.com) where a ceremony honoring Aaron is followed by big ‘ol party complete with great live music, a silent auction, and raffles benefiting the USO.

For more information about the event and Our Fallen Hero Foundation, visit: https://www.ourfallenherofoundation.org/

Pam Toppen, Ride Event Chair ourfallenherofoundation@gmail.com

Aaron Toppen’s Story: At the age of 19, PFC Aaron Toppen, a Mokena, Illinois native, went overseas for the first time in his life to Afghanistan. On June 9, 2014, in Zabul Province, he was on a mission to secure the area for the upcoming presidential election when his unit encountered Taliban resistance. Aaron, along with four other Americans and an Afghan interpreter, lost their lives in a tragic friendly fire incident.

Family and friends, intent on remembering Aaron and feeling a need to pay back and pay forward the incredible support experienced during the tragedy, began holding fundraising events within months of Aaron’s death. The Our Fallen Hero Foundation was formed as an official 501©(3) charity in Spring of 2018.

Our Fallen Hero Foundation’s purpose is to honor Aaron’s memory through charitable, benevolent, and patriotic activities. The charity is emphatically non-political.

Other Upcoming Events

  1. Unit Support: Recreation Day 

    Sports and Fitness Day at Joliet Amory for Illinois Guard. Physical Fitness events followed by Chic Fila and fun yard games. Marine recruiting station located next door joining for yard games and food

    Jun 24th, 2025 10:00 AM CDT (1000R)

  2. Family Fun Wednesday-Painting for woodland creatures 

    530 Farragut Avenue Suite B Great Lakes, IL 60088 United States

    Another fun filled Family Fun Wednesday Night with the USO center closed off just for the families, crafts, and lots of laughter! *please register

    Jun 25th, 2025 5:30 PM CDT (1730R)

    Register
  3. Gaming- Chess Tournament 

    530 Farragut Avenue Suite B Great Lakes, IL 60088 United States

    ♟️🧠 Think You’ve Got Game? 🧠♟️ The USO Chess Tournament is on — and it’s your move! Join us for a battle of strategy, skill, and sharp minds. 🏆 All skill levels welcome | Prizes for top players 🧩 Open to all service members – come test your tactics …

    Jun 26th, 2025 12:00 PM CDT (1200R)

    Register
  4. Karaoke Fridays 

    530 Farragut Avenue Suite B Great Lakes, IL 60088 United States

    🎤🎶 Karaoke Fridays at USO Great Lakes! 🎶🎤 Get ready to unleash your inner superstar at our Karaoke Fridays! Whether you’re a shower singer or a stage sensation, we want to hear you belt out your favorite tunes. Bring your friends, pick your favorite…

    Jun 27th, 2025 12:00 PM CDT (1200R)

  5. Fun Fridays with the Phoenix 

    Therapy dog was present and provided love and serotine for all of the sailors.

    Jun 27th, 2025 2:00 PM CDT (1400R)

  6. Gaming-Mortal Kombat Tournament 

    530 Farragut Avenue Suite B Great Lakes, IL 60088 United States

    🎮 Finish Him! 🥊 USO Great Lakes is bringing the heat with a Mortal Kombat Tournament on May 13th from 12–2 PM!

    Jul 1st, 2025 12:00 PM CDT (1200R)

    Register

Programs at this Location