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Severely Wounded Heroes

Jesse Cottle

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. (Ret.)

On July 19, 2009, during his fourth deployment, Jesse and his Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team were on foot patrol clearing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Afghanistan, when an IED detonated under Jesse, blasting him into the air.

Support Heroes Like Jesse

Jesse Cottle After Explosion

Jesse's Incredible Story of Bravery & Patriotism

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Jesse Cottle grew up in Fort Collins, Colorado. His mother was a registered nurse for 20 years, and his father was a Marine in the Vietnam War. After September 11, 2001, Jesse’s desire to follow in his father’s footsteps grew stronger, and he joined the US Marine Corps in 2003.

On July 19, 2009, during his fourth deployment, Jesse and his Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team were on foot patrol clearing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, when an IED detonated under Jesse, blasting him into the air.

After being sent to The National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Jesse underwent seven surgeries on both legs. He was then sent to Naval Medical Center San Diego for outpatient care.

The Gary Sinise Foundation was honored to provide a specially adapted smart home for Jesse to continue his rehabilitation and focus on growing and raising his family with his wife, Kelly.

Our Privilege

We Proudly Built A Custom Home for Jesse

The Gary Sinise Foundation was proud to build a custom home for Jesse specially adapted to his unique needs.

We've built homes all across the nation for America's most severely wounded heroes. Every home is fully custom and 100% mortgage-free. Learn more about our custom homebuilding programs and support our efforts. Make a donation today.

Wall of Gratitude

Jesse Cottle

Forever grateful.
F. Harmon
Wyoming
Grateful every single day for your courage, Jesse.
K. Curtis
Arizona
Hey Jesse, your story pushes me to never give up. Much love.
T. Watson
Minnesota
Thank you for your service
A. Arnold
Utah
Jesse, you inspire more than you know. Keep shining brother.
B. Barber
Maryland
Respect and gratitude always 🇺🇸
E. Bishop
New Mexico
THANK YOU JESSE. AMERICA LOVES YOU.
C. Sanders
Alaska
Thanks doesn’t feel big enough, but it’s what I have. Thanks Jesse.
E. Dennis
Pennsylvania
Thinking of you today Jesse. Thank you for showing us what perseverance really means.
A. Jackson
Alaska
Your bravery is a blessing. May God continue to guide you.
N. Bush
Idaho
Your courage makes freedom real for the rest of us.
S. Price
South Dakota
Your sacrifice reminds us what real strength looks like. Thank you 🙏
H. Baldwin
Wyoming
  

 
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