Appleton Patch: Fox Valley Technical College - Purple Heart Recipient Receives National Honor
Mike Gawel loves his job as a financial aid facilitator at Fox Valley Technical College. "I get to help people understand the importance of an education," he says. "I'm constantly meeting new people, hearing their stories and helping them to that next chapter."
Serving others is just part of who Gawel is. In 2005, he enlisted in the Army and served seven years, including a tour in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. While doing route clearance escorting Polish forces, U.S. Army Specialist (SPC) Gawel's patrol had already found and disposed of several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) when it struck an IED along the road. The force of the explosion disabled the vehicle and injured many of those inside, including SPC Gawel. Polish air support ultimately provided him and others with medivac assistance. He was then honorably discharged and received a Purple Heart for his valor.