HAMPTON, N.H. – Operation Hat Trick (OHT), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting wounded U.S. combat veterans, has recognized Clemson University’s outstanding efforts in aiding the recovery of wounded U.S. combat service members and veterans by naming the school one of nine finalists nationally for its 2020 Excellence in Service Award. In recognition of the school’s impact, OHT will make a donation to Purple Heart Homes Golden Corner Chapter on the University’s behalf. Operation Hat Trick Founder and President Dot Sheehan presented the Excellence in Service Award on May 14 via Zoom call.
In 2019, Clemson was heavily involved in the initiative and named a co-winner, including building awareness and becoming the largest driver of OHT apparel in the nation. For 2020, the focus was on storytelling and many of the initiatives of our heroes with Military ties.
“To earn this recognition is gratifying for Clemson University and our community,” said Mike Money, Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing. “Military heritage and honor is such an integral part of Clemson, and to be able to partner with OHT and all of its licensing partners, it’s a tremendous way to give back to those that give us so much.”
The finalists were chosen based on their efforts to fully integrate OHT on their campuses through a presence in their bookstores and other retail outlets; promoting veterans’ causes through their social media properties and advertising campaigns; and generating additional revenue that will be used to support the recovery of wounded service members and veterans.
“Clemson continues to show the kind of devotion and commitment to our veterans we’re hoping to inspire all over the country,” Operation Hat Trick Founder and President Dot Sheehan said. “Raising funds is a critical part of meeting their needs, but just as important is raising awareness of their struggles so we never forget our obligation to help them overcome their injuries and enjoy full lives.”
Clemson’s efforts generated thousands of dollars in donations to help veterans recover from the visible and invisible injuries suffered in combat.
A portion of each sale of OHT branded merchandise is donated to select organizations that support the recovery of wounded service members and veterans. Through the sale of branded merchandise and member donations, Operation Hat Trick donations have helped dozens of organizations that provide direct services and support to wounded service members and veterans. They include Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Veterans Count, the Navy SEAL Foundation, the Travis Mills Foundation, Liberty House, Project Sanctuary, Semper Fi Fund and the Yellow Ribbon Fund.
“Our partners at Clemson have shown the kind of commitment and devotion to our veterans we’re hoping to inspire nationwide,” Sheehan said. “Raising funds is a critical part of meeting their needs, but equally as important is raising awareness of veterans’ struggles so we never forget our obligation to help them overcome their injuries and enjoy full lives.”
OHT generates awareness, support and funding for the recovery of America’s wounded service members and veterans. The organization pursues these goals through the sale of OHT branded merchandise, proceeds of which are distributed to selected organizations supporting the OHT mission. Operation Hat Trick is supported by more than 400 universities and colleges, 130 high schools, 21 National Hockey League teams, 15 NBA teams, more than 80 Minor League Baseball teams, and over 90 companies. For more information, to give online or to purchase OHT apparel and merchandise, visit www.operationhattrick.org. To receive their newsletter, text OHTBriefing to 22828.
