Each year, HireQuest Inc. and the Higher Quest Foundation host the American Hero Awards. The ceremony recognizes two American service men or women who have gone above the call of duty in service to their country.

Ultimate Hero Award Recipient PFC Michael R. Patton, U.S. Marine Corps

Michael was born on Pearl Harbor Day and passed away on Flag Day. After 9/11, he told his parents that he needed to join the service to help protect those who could not protect themselves.

“Mikey,” as he was known to his friends and family, loved playing basketball with his school team. He traveled with his family to many American military bases to visit his uncle, a proud Marine.

Naturally, Michael chose to join the Marine Corps, where he served honorably with the Marine Expeditionary Force. He died on June 14, 2008, in Farah, Afghanistan, while supporting combat operations.

American Hero Award Recipient SGT Brennan J. Beck, U.S. Army

Brennan graduated from high school and enlisted as an Infantryman 5 days later. During his 5 years of service, he deployed to Iraq twice.

Since leaving service, Brennan has earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in Education. He founded Clemson University’s Military and Veteran Engagement Program, and Gov. McMaster lauded his work at the S.C. Department of Veteran’s Affairs.

Today, Brennan lives in Bluffton, S.C., with his wife Ashley and his two children, Brynley and Gavin. He is a construction superintendent with homebuilder Palmetto Bluffs and continues to be involved in veteran organizations, including Vantage Point Foundation and OPFOB.