Tom Block

U.S. Army Sergeant Tom Block graduated high school from Waseca High School in Waseca, MN in 2005. He attended Minnesota State University at Mankato where he wrestled for 4 years and had the pleasure of meeting Jared while attending his training camp. Shortly after his wrestling career, he joined the army as a Ranger with the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.

On his fourth combat rotation, on October 6, 2013, SGT Block was severely wounded by an improvised explosive device (IED) suicide vest. He was part of a joint task force that prevented a high-profile suicide bombing attack in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, and was injured when the bomber detonated herself approximately 10 feet from the assault force.

SGT Block lost his right eye and most of his vision in the other, in addition to withstanding severe leg injuries and shrapnel wounds across his body as because of the explosion. He has undergone approximately 15 surgeries, but despite his injuries, he has remained upbeat and undeterred, enduring grueling recovery and rehabilitation to defy doctors’ expectations. He still has quite a few surgeries to go, but thanks to his determination and positive attitude, the Army Times named him Solider of the Year in 2014, citing his perseverance and ability to motivate others as key factors in the decision.

In May 2019, Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors teamed up with the Army Ranger Lead the Way Fund and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters to provide SGT Block with a 100-percent accessible home, built specifically for SGT Block’s needs.

Please take a moment to honor SGT Block’s service and sacrifice by signing his guest book and leaving a message of support below. Consider donating today to help JAH4WW continue its mission of supporting combat-wounded Veterans. Your generosity makes a difference.