General Motors Announces the Last Hero Finalists of 2011
By: Stevie Hoey
December 6, 2011 8:59 am CT
It seems like just yesterday we featured our first round of Our Town, Our Heroes finalists. What better way to end 2011 than with four new inspiring hero stories?
The individuals below have been nominated for the Our Town, Our Heroes program because of their continued dedication to serving others and striving to better their communities. We need YOUR help to name one of them the last hero winner of 2011!
Take a few moments to read the stories below, and then cast your vote for the person who inspires you the most. After the voting period, the finalist with the most votes will win a week-long loan of a new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac vehicle along with a special hero package.
Ashley Coleman from East St. Louis, nominated by Amanda Jackson
Ashley has inspired East St. Louis and surrounding communities through her continuing selfless services. Along with serving in the Illinois Army National Guard, Ashley strives to help those in need by donating to food pantries and providing clothing for the homeless. She has continued to devote her time and effort to work with the youth within the city of East St. Louis through educational workshops to prepare them for college. She gives everyone a sense of hope through encouragement. She is not just a true hero, but a young lady who works hard to inspire and motivate others.
Herschel Luckinbill from Montgomery, nominated by Wayne Johnson
Herschel has dedicated much of his time and money to serving local World War II veterans with Honor Flight Chicago, an organization that flies veterans to Washington DC to visit the war memorials and be recognized for their service. Herschel has helped lead 25 flights from Chicago and continues to spend his time planning reunions and fundraisers to benefit local veterans. He is a true hero.
Jennifer Huber from North Aurora, nominated by Donna Brouch
Jennifer serves her community and the area’s seniors by working at the Fox Valley Park District, planning meals, entertainment and events. She organizes the popular “Fun Friday” program and plans activities and trips for all to enjoy. Without Jennifer, area seniors would easily be lost in the shuffle. She is a hero to all in the community.
Stacy Sieczynski from Newark, nominated by Danielle Greene
Stacy is a dog groomer who inspires others with her love and care for animals. She takes in unwanted animals no matter what size, shape, breed, condition or color. She feeds, bathes and gives them a good haircut and vet work if needed. She then works to place each animal into a forever – not foster – home. I have seen so many animals join wonderful families all because she put her money, time, and effort into it. She is a hometown hero and the animals have her to thank!
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Remember, only one vote per IP address per round! We actively monitor voting to ensure all votes follow the Our Town, Our Heroes Contest Rules.
Voting for this round of Our Town, Our Heroes ends at 6:00 P.M. CT on Wednesday, December 14, 2011. We will announce the winning hero on Thursday, December 15, so be sure to keep checking DrivingtheMidwest.com and follow us on Twitter @DrivingMidwest for updates!
Tags: Ashley Coleman, hero, Hershel Luckinbill, Illinois, Jennifer Huber, OTOH, our heroes, our town, Our Town Our Heroes, Stacy Sieczynski
Stacy is someone that really has a heart for animals. Not just dogs or cats, but all animals. She always rescues something and takes care of them until she has found a home. She is a true friend for all living creatures.
Stacy is not just for the animals but for the well being of others. After my surgery on my brian on October 6 2010 I met her and she let my learn how to work my hands again by letting me play with her pets. I learned how to waork my hands better than even the doctors thought I would. She became my frined and more with the way she helps out animals and people in the community. I just want my story out there to tell all others that she has more heart and love for more than just animals but for a random person who wanted to better with her physical needs and end up being a friend.
This is her friend Barbara hopeing and wanting others to know she loves this town and all in it.
Go Stacy!
Ashley is not only committed to her country but she is committed to state as well as her city. I personally have been on the receiving end of her generosity. She donated clothes to my daughter for school. She also has encouraged my son to join the Armed Forces. She works long hours of the day making sure the least fortune become fortunate. After finishing her term in the Armed Forced she didn’t quit but she continues to serve in the Army. Most people I know have departed from active duty but not Ashley she is committed to the people; her country. I have been blessed to cross her path.
Go Ashley!!!!!!!!!!!!
Stacy is the greatest. She has such a passion for animals and kids.
Herschel, a Vietnam veteran himself, gives tirelessly of his time to honor WWII veterans. Not only does he work with Honor Flight Chicago and help with each and every flight, he meets with all of the veterans in Aurora and the surrounding areas once a month for breakfast, provides rides to them wherever they need to go and is available to assist them in any way possible. Herschel is a true hero!
Go Ashley!!!!
Herschel is an American Hero who gives of himself every day to honor America's veterans–especially our most senior veterans, our WWII heroes. Thank you Herschel for all you do to support and honor our World War II heroes.
Ashley you rock!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Honor Flight is an honorable organization. It is dedicated to preserving the integrity, dignity and providing a lifetime experience to men and women who served our country during WWII and now Korea. This is a selfless organization and the men and women that volunteer for it are also selfless. Herschel is the epitiemy of this award. Thank you for honoring those who served and have provided a safe place for me and my family to live.
Agreed, Debbie! Congratulations to Herschel on being a finalist! His tireless efforts on behalf of our greatest generation are an example to us all
Hershel(Lucky) Luckinbill's untiring efforts every year to ensure fellow veterans have very few problems in many functions that he organizes and assists the efforts of many others are commendable and sets an example for others to follow.
Herschel is truly a tireles working American patriot who give his all every day.
Herschel does more than just HFC. He is always there and ready to rock for someone in need. He is the Man
Voted for Herschel
Congratulations Hershel, you are very deservinh of this award. You are a hero to many. Thank you for your dedication to our WWII heros.
Herschel is such a giving, caring person and is a hero to me. He is always doing for others and has a heart as big as the south. He never asks for anything in return and deserves this honor.
Herschel is one of the most enthusiastic, energetic people I know. He works tirelessly helping all
Veterans, especially our WWII Veterans. He's got multiple irons in the fire at all times – whether it's fund
raising, honoring Veterans, or just helping out any way he can. His volunteer work clearly comes from
his heart. Best of all, he is a cheerful giver. And let's not forget that great Herschel smile….
Herschel has my vote!!
Over the past few years, I have seen how tirelessly Herschel gives of himself to ensure our senior heroes are honored. In addition to being involved with every flight for Honor Flight Chicago, Herschel has organized successful fundraisers so WWII veterans are provided an all-expenses paid trip to Washington to visit their memorial. He truly is an inspiration and just a downright nice guy! Thanks Herschel for all you do!
way to go ashley we are so proud of you
Hershel rocks! He is an inspiration to all of us volunteers at Honor Flight Chicago! GO HERSHEL!!!
Im soooo proud of you in countless ways! You know you ARE definitely my hero!!! GO ashley!
My name is Brad Luckinbill and Herschel is my Dad! There are a lot of things that people see my Dad do, but its the little things I have witnessed that make him my Hero. From visiting his WWII friends daily when they are in the hospital or nursing home to paying for the gas of a Veteran that forgot his wallet at home, his generosity and true love for our Veterans is astounding. To hear a WWII Veteran tell me that my Dad is the best friend he has ever had was enough for me. I cannot remember a day that my father was not doing something for a Veteran or planning to do something for a Veteran. He proudly served his country in Vietnam many years ago and he continues to serve and love his country today. I’m so amazingly proud of my Dad and whether he wins this or not, the people around him know him and love him for the true Hero that he is.
Herschel works tirelessly to ensure every veteran in his community is involved with being recognized as a Hero, well it is about time Herschel gets his Hero "veteran" recognition. Congrats on the nomination, so well deserved.
Cathy Towers, Honor flight chicago
I attended a Navy ship reunion in Washington DC with my 86 year old WW2 veteran uncle that was planned and hosted by Herschel Luckinbil. He is truly dedicated to the men and women who served our country and has enabled many to reflect and honor their service.
Ashley is most inspiring. She gives on so many levels. Good luck Ashley
I first want to say thank you to the others in this heroic "contest"! What each of you do is amazing. However, my dad, Herschel Luckinbill, is one amazing individual with one HUGE heart! Since retiring a few years back, my dad has been busier than he ever was. But now it is not for the need, it is out of the pure love and kindness in his heart. He has been on 25 Honor Flights with World War II veterans, hosts a monthly breakfast which has grown to over 50 veterans each time, takes veterans on mini field trips around the area, he has hosted and attended annual reunions for his Navy ship mates, he has a Model A Ford that he drives veterans in in parades, he hosts and assists with numerous fundraisers for all veterans, and he does all of this and so much more because he wants to! I have seen more tears of joy in my dad's eyes in the last few years than I did my whole life! I love you dad and I couldn't be more proud of you! YOU ARE A TRUE HERO!
Herschel is an American patriot! He works for the Veteran and he makes everyone feel a part of his family. May GOD richly bless his efforts and keep him in His care.
CPT Ashley Coleman is not only a hometown hero in her civilian life in East St, Louis but also the Rear Detachment Commander for the 709th Medical Company, during the unit's recent deployment to Iraq. That means, she was responsible for training medical soldiers back here at the 709th's home at the Peoria IL Armory and supporting families of the deployed sodliers. — She is a multi-factited hero– both civilian and military. You go, Ashley!!!
I want to thank all of you for your support. Your kind words have brought cheer to my heart and tears to my eyes. I am not the hero. The true heroes are those that made the ultimate sacrifice, those that were mamed for life and those that are now in harms way today still fighting a battle for all of us, so we have the freedom to live in this great nation. I want to say THANK YOU to all veterans.
i vote HERSCHEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HERSCHELS is #1
Congratulations Bud on your nomination for this award! Our parents would be proud of the volunteer work you are doing to assist our American Heroes (VETERANS). Your picture hangs on a “Wall of Family Heroes” in my home along with pictures of our Dad(US Army, Ret); myself, (USAF, Ret); one of my grandsons(Iraq vet) and several other family members who have served to help keep our Country free. I know you are doing wonderful things for Veterans in the Chicago area and continuing a tradition and heritage of service taught us by our parents by the way they lived their lives. Keep up the good works! I’m proud to be your Brother!
I was fortuate to be able to work with Jennifer Huber for 12 years at Fox Valley Park District and was able to see First hand just how loving and caring a person she is. She give her heart and soul to the programs she develops for the Active Adults in the community. Jennifer lists too them and developes program based around their wants and desires. It does not matter how busy Jennifer is, she always makes time for your Active Adults; they come first. There may be 100 people in the room, but she will make sure to get to each and everyone of them and have a personal conversation. She treats each person as if they are the most important person there. Fox Valley Park District is very lucky and honored to have such a person on their staff.
They are ALL heroes!
Herschel says he is not a hero, but believe me he really is one. Denotes so much time to making sure all veterans are recogonized. His never ending smile is something to behold. Good luck to you Herschel..
So proud of you CPT Coleman…….Keep up the good work and know that your work is not in vain! Love you! Deborah L. Brown (LTC-US Army-Retired)
I don't know who to vote for they all have great qualities..This is hard but I will get it done.
Being supportive of one person does not diminish the works of others, but I know Herschel Luckinbill's hard work on the behalf of Veterans is appreciated by all he touches. Honor Flight Chicago and other Veterans' organizations would not be what they are without his tireless work and support, and I'm proud to know him.
You got my vote Ashley!!!
I have known Herschel Luckinbill for several years now and driven the bus full seniors, veterans and young people to Midway airport to welcome him home and 99 other veteran's on their Honor Flights. I'm proud to say I know him and hope he wins this award. He is truly deserving!
go Ashley,,,,,A young lady with a beautiful sweet heart.
Lucky does a great job taking wwII vetrons to see their memoril. He sent and toured 25 trips to washington D.C. He also hosted our ship reunion this last fall. What a shipmate a sailor can have. It's a honor to vote for this man. Dennis Schechinger
Words can not express how thankful I am to have all the support. The real heroes are you all!! Thank you Mr. Luckinbill for paving the way for soldiers such as myself..I am forever in debt to you as well!!! God Bless..
Herschel Luckinbil is what selfless giving back is all about. A true Veteran and friend to all Veterans.
Herschel Luckinbill is very deserving of this award. I believe at times, he thinks more about the veterans he knows, then himself. Individuals like Herschel are hard to come by.
Our uncle is Clarence Bark, a WWII Navy vet who Herschel has taken all over to talk about Honor Flight. Clarence met Herschel when he went on one of the Honor Flights to Washington 3 years ago. Since they met, Herschel makes sure Clarence, at age 88, gets to all the events and parades, sometimes picking up in a vintage car. Herschel Luckinbill has one of the biggest hearts I know. On his own, he makes sure the men and women who served our country get the honor they so deserve. Since Clarence met Herschel his smile is bigger and Herschel has given him a new purpose to keep going…YOU GO HERSCHEL!!!
Thanks CPT Ashley Coleman for serving our country! You are doing an excellent job. You truly are a hero.
Go Ashley!!!!!!!!!!!! SGRho love
Herschel deserves this!! He goes above & beyond to help make sure the Veterans before him receives the long over due homecoming they deserve. Vote For Herschel!!
It is with great pleasure: that I vote for Herschel Luckinbill and Honor Flight. Folks that see a need and work to find a solution are a hero in my book! And what a truly inspirational person to have in our hometown.
Herschel was my neighbor for ten yers and would do anything for his neighbors from clearing driveways to taking them to the Dr. or visiting them in the hospital. When he started working for The Honor Flights Chicago we woried about him spending so much time and energy on them and still do. He definitly deserves this honor.
I think that all 4 of them are heroes in there own ways and since they saved the best for last they should all win!
Ashley I dont know you. But I work with your mom , and your mom is a very nice and carrying person Im glade I got to know you. But keep going what you are doing baby . May God bless you.
You go girl?????? God is Good
#TEAMASHLEY
Ashley
Go, Ashley! Best wishes, Soror!
Herschel retired a few years ago and has given his life to the welfare of military veterans and there accomplishments. First of all he hasworked on the Honor Flight and has helped WWII vets go to Washinton, D.C. and has gone on about 25 flights assisting the vets. He has also organized the vets breakfast meeting every other Thursday at Grandma's Table with info for vets attending. There are about 45 attending. He has also arranged trips to such places as Great Lakes training facility and othe interesting military places. All of this is very necessary to keep our vets appreciated.
YOU GO, HERSCHEL. HE IS THE BEST, AT WHAT HE DOES. WHAT DOES HE DO? HE TRIES TO MAKE EVERY PERSON THAT'S EVER SERVED IN THE SERVICES, A SPECIAL PERSON. AND, THAT'S WHAT HE IS, A VERY SPECIAL PERSON. VOTE THE BEST, VOTE HERSCHEL LUCKINBIL
Herschel was my father-in-law's escort on the Honor Flight to Washington D.C. over a year ago. He unselfishly gave of his time to spend a day with Bill seeing to his every need making him feel like a hero and always with his sense of enthusiasm and kindness. It was truly one of the highlights in Bill's life to visit the WW II memorial and be part of the "mail call" and then celebration upon returning home. The Honor Flight initiative has proven to be a wonderful, most meaningful way to honor those men and women of the "Greatest Generation" as they reach the end of their lives. I have talked to MANY families that have had similar experiences regarding their loved ones who so valiantly served our country. Hershel is the primary one we have to thank. By the way, Bill passed on just a couple weeks ago at the age of 92. Who do you think was one of the first people at the Funeral home to pay his respects ?…yes it was Herschel. Hershel is a hero to our family as he has been an inspiration on how one can say THANKS and HONOR so many Veterans. It is our privledge to vote for Herschel for this award. He is most deserving.
Herschel – I consider it my honor to cast a vote for someone who truly believes in giving back to the Community and "paying it forward."…God Bless ! John Flynn from Valley Fire Protection Systems
Ashely , we are al so proud of you and appreciate all your hard efforts. You are so deserving of this honor and we wish you the very best of luck. So proud to know your mother and what a great role modle she has been for you. Good Luck. Sincerely Sherry Rost BJC emplyee
The Friendly Center Club relies on Jennifer so very much. You tell her your name, and she remembers it even if you don't see her for another month. She's the heart of the club. She organizes the entertainment, prizes, monthly birthday parties, weekly meetings, decorations, etc. I've heard some people say, "If it weren't for Jennifer, I wouldn't bother going out."
Ashley you have truly been a blessing to me and my family. Derrick will be graduating next Saturday with his degree in Engineering..thanks so much again and again for supporting the youth of today for they are are future leaders!!!
Ashley " Our home town hero"…..
Ashley words can not express the blessing you have received and are about to receive. I remember when I first met you when you were stationed in Washington and asking you what were your life Motto was and your reply was something along the lines of "Sir my motto is thousands of candles can be lighted from one candle and I want to be that one candle..back then you were a "Butter Bar" and now it's great to see you still pushing forward!! HOOAH
I can see that all 4 are great hero's, but Jennifer is my hero. She is an inspiration to all people, Her devotion and generosity for the seniors at the Friendly Center makes her a true Great Hero for our city in a lot of different ways.
Ashley have always been hero in our family life; no matter what the need were ;Ashley was there; with a helping hand , loving sharing and offering a good advises. GOD bless as she tries to make this world a better place.
Ashley Coleman
Ashley is an awesome woman and a great asset to our country!!!!
Ashley, I'm so proud of you….You are the true meaning of "TAQ" – True African Queen. Loving GOD, loving others & serving the world. Love, peace & blessings, Moma Sherrie
Herschel is an amazing man!! He works tirelessly planning fundraisers, attending meetings, and being a guardian on honor flights~ There are many veterans that would have NEVER had the chance to see the memorial erected in their honor had it NOT been for Herschel and his dedication to the honor of our veterans. I have voted for Herschel and I hope that everyone who reads his story does also.. This is not about just being a public servant, this is about living your life as a public servant as Herschel does!
While all are deserving, my vote goes to Herschel. It is amazing to see the pictures from the Honor Flight.
After spending time with Herschel and his wife this weekend and seeing what type of individual he is. Well deserving of this accomplishment. You are AWESOME LUCKY! GO GET THEM!
Go Ashley, good luck soror!
Lets GO ASHLEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ashley you got my vote!
Maureen, you're so right. It has been a great pleasure serving alongside with CPT Ashley Coleman in the 709th ASMC. There's no way that I could have done my job here without her. She did an amazing job at coordinating and planning the Welcome Home Ceremony for the deployed Soldiers of the 709th who have just returned from Iraq. Way to go CPT Coleman!!!
Ashley is all about Greater Service and Greater Progress!
Ashley you a blessing to all and the community you got my vote!
Please vote for for Herschel Luckinbil. My father who is not with us, was also in the Navy and I know he would be proud to see of his fellow Navy man win such an honor..
Ashley…we are so proud of you and your accomplishments!! Continue to serve your community and your country!
I've known Herschel for over 35 years now. He really deserves this award. He goes above and beyond what is asked of him. He is full of personality and is sucha hard worker. I hope you win this award! It is truly deserved! Love you, Herswchel!
GO ASHLEY!!!!!!
Go Ashley!
I had the pleasure of riding on a bus into the airport with Hershel to honour WW11 vets. At first I
thought WOW this guy is way over on his dedication but I soon realized he was really, really
dedicated to all vets and I applaud him for his untiring efforts.
Ashley rocks! She should be the winner!
Ashley you deserve this one!!! Keep up the hard work..You may not remember me, but I was helped by you back in 2007 when you donated funds to help get my electric bill paid!!! You are a true BLESSING!!
Ashley Ashley Ashley!!! All I can say is it is about time!!! You have done so much not just for your city but Charleston,IL too!!! Keep it going young lady!!!
You said that so well, Brad! I'm just a friend and know what you say to be true. He inspires us and makes us better people to just be around him! We're so proud to know and be influenced by the likes of your dad, Herschell "Lucky" Luckinbill!!! Betty and Ron Dotseth
So proud of you Ashley, lets get it for the home team!!!
We had the good fortune to attend our first USS O'Brien reunion and met the most incredibly remarkable man, who pretty much put his heart and his soul into making it the BEST reunion ever for his shipmates. This year we went to Washington, DC, and yes, he outdid himself one more time. He gives so abundantly and selflessly to his fellow veterans, and we've only seen a small part of the work Hershel Luckingbill contributes to others every single day! We watch him from the sidelines help plan and then joins the World War II vets to DC. It's an exhausting journey, but he's so happy doing this. Well, it doesn't even come close to the happiness and honor he bestows on us lucky ones who are the recipients of his incredible caring, dedication and hard work. He puts his whole heart into helping others, and I believe that God has placed him here as an angel amongst us. The WW II vets and Viet Nam vets deeply appreciate him, and he inspires all the rest of us to walk in his ways and extend ourselves too to helping others. We just cannot imagine a better example of a HERO than Herschel "Lucky" Luckinbill!
Go Ashley!
Herschel has been a special person in mine and my families lives since before he served in Viet Nam. I knew tnen that he would be a hero. He is truly a wonderful friend and gives his time and heart unselfishly. You are
my hero. Congratulations.
I had the honor of sitting next to Herschel on the flight to Washington DC when I accompanied my Dad as his guardian on the Honor Flight Chicago on October 26, 2010. I was so impressed with Herschel's attitude and dedication. I asked him what prompted him to do all the work that he does, and he responded, "I do it to honor my Dad." Now that my own Dad is gone, I understand what Herschel was saying, and I'm even more impressed with his dedication. He's a wonderful example and representative of Honor Flight Chicago. Both he and the organization deserve all the accolades that could possibly come their way. Thank you, Herschel — and thank you, Honor Flight Chicago.
Ashley, my sister, my hero, my heart! EEE-YIP!
GO ASHLEY SHE'S NOT ONLY MY COUSIN BUT SHE'S A FELLOW BATTLE.. SHE WENT FROM LEADING SOLDIERS IN COMBAT TO BEING A GOOD EMPLAE AROUND TE COMMUNITY !!
Ashley
Vote for Herschel Luckinbill…..he deserves it..Good Luck Uncle Herschel, love ya
As a retired Navy Captain, Hershel's activities for veterans stand out from the other candidates in terms of what he's done. Imagine – hosting 25 trips to Washington DC to see the war memorials and be recognized. But it's not just this activity but his daily activities that stand out. Most impressive is his son's posting in this thread. Thanks, Herschel, for all you do!
you got our vote!! Lucky you are the man!
Herschel is an outstanding Veteran who deserves this dear recognition – as do all of our Veterans. The Honor Flight organization is indeed lucky to have someone of Herschel's caliber. And, while the Honor Flights don't rest on any one person, it's fitting that Herschel be recognized at this time.
TEAM ASHLEY IN THE HOUSE!!!
Go Ashley!
Good luck Herschel! We need more people like you in this world! Thank you for all you have done & still do:)
I voted for Herschel! A Vietnam Veteran who is doing all he can for the Veterans of WWII and doing more than just that. Please vote for this Hero!
I know no other Illinoisan who has done more for the true American hero, the Veterans of our Armed Forces. Twenty five times in the past four years, Herschel and I visited two of his shipmates inches apart on the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, DC. Herschel tells for all to hear about the day we lost these two men and tells what has happened to their widows and children. I could go on forever telling all this fine things Herschel does for the American veteran. From one Marine to my favorite Sailor, thank you, God Bless, and keep up the good "work"!!!
OoooRah,
Read Boeckel
Glen Ellyn
I vote for Ashley Coleman. She has served her country well. I am very proud of Ashley.
You are my hero because you walk the walk not just do the talk. You were a real hero to a little girl growing up one time.
I vote for Ashley Coleman
i vote for all of them and everyone of them xoxoxo
Voting for Herschel!
I attended Honor Flight Chicago with my 88 year old Dad July 2010- Herschel really deserves this award. He is very personable, and gives each WWII hero, the recognition they deserve!
ALL of these nominees have outstanding ways about them; from feeding the homeless, taking care of both veterans and all seniors and those animals that need a chance. I ask would GM be willing to give ALL of these nominee's a vehicle? All have worthy causes, can could one choose?
Go Herschel
Go Herschel Luckinbill.
Herschel is truly dedicated his Country and to helping and honoring all Veterans and Active Duty Military personnel. I have had the pleasure of volunteering with Hershel for three years now with Honor Flight Chicago. He has earned this HERO designation by giving all he has to making sure every WWII Veteran gets safely to DC to see their Memorial and participate in their Day of Honor. His dedication is selfless and endless. Congratulations Herschel, you are already a hero in my book!
I vote for Herschel. HIs unwavering support for our veterans is truly amazing. His volumnteer peers at Honor Flight cannot say enough about his dedication and efforts to touch the life of WWll veterans.
Herschel Luckinbil is a true friend to all and gives his time and energy to all.