Clemson University Named A Finalist For Operation Hat Trick (OHT) 2021 Excellence In Service Award For Improving Lives Of U.S. Veterans

HAMPTON, NH, May 25, 2021 - 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 University a finalist for its 2021 Excellence in Service Award. In recognition of the University’s impact, OHT will make a donation to the Purple Heart Homes Golden Corner Chapter on the University’s behalf. Operation Hat Trick Founder and President Dot Sheehan presented the Excellence in Service Awards via video conference on May 25.

Clemson was one of seven finalists that included Texas A&M University, University of Arizona, George Mason University, North Dakota State University, Utah State University, and Western Michigan University. The finalists were chosen based on their efforts to fully integrate OHT on and off 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.

"I am very proud of what Clemson has done to support Operation Hat Trick and veterans who have been wounded, and are now recovering from invisible and visible injuries,” said Dot Sheehan, Founder and CEO of Operation Hat Trick. “Despite a year of challenges, Clemson has shown not only a commitment to support OHT but also a commitment to support their local community, which is so critical. We at OHT are honored and proud to partner with Clemson."

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, Operation Hat Trick has helped 80+ organizations that provide direct support to veterans in need. They include the Travis Mills Foundation, Semper Fi Fund, Warriors Ice Hockey Programs, Hero Flights, the Yellow Ribbon Fund, Fisher Houses, Veterans Healing Farm, and Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors.

About Operation Hat Trick:

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 500 universities and colleges, 21 National Hockey League teams, 15 NBA teams, 165 high schools, more than 70 Minor League Baseball teams, and over 80 companies. For more information, to give online or to purchase OHT apparel and merchandise, visit www.operationhattrick.org.

About Clemson University:

Clemson University is a public land-grant research university in Clemson, South Carolina. Founded in 1889, Clemson is the second-largest university in student population in South Carolina. Clemson has a military-friendly environment with a proud tradition of excellence dating back to its founding as a military school. Beginning with the graduating class of 1896, more than 10,000 Clemson men and women have served in the armed forces. For more information, visit clemson.edu.

About Purple Heart Homes:

Purple Heart Homes is a 501(c)3 public charity that was founded in 2008 by John Gallina and the late Dale Beatty, two combat wounded Veterans. Purple Heart Homes fills the gaps in housing through the Veterans’ Aging In Place and Veterans Home Ownership Programs. From building a ramp for a Veteran of World War II, to providing home ownership opportunities to younger Veterans, our programs are designed out of necessity and fit the specific needs of the Veteran population. For more information, visit purplehearthomesusa.org.