Bring Thomas' Dream Full Circle
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Capt. Thomas J. Heitmann was a pilot for the United States Marine Corps who dreamed of building a track and field facility at his former high school. Unfortunately, he is not able to see his dream of helping the future athletes of St. Bede come true. In 2011, while serving his country, Thomas was tragically killed. It is our hope that those who view this video will be inspired to want to make a difference in Thomas' honor (please click on the play button above to watch the video).
Despite not having a track to practice on, Thomas developed into a star runner. He realized and understood that breaking down physical and mental barriers led to accomplishing goals and breaking school records. Thomas still holds two of the Academy’s track and field records. The knowledge Thomas gained from track shaped him in other areas of his life, and he was able to achieve many additional accomplishments. Thomas had often dreamed about getting a track built at St.Bede in order to help and inspire future student athletes. Thomas realized that the disadvantage St. Bede runners have in comparison to other track programs in the area, is the lack of a training facility. So in 2010 Thomas reached out to his former High School track coach via email to see what could be done to start a fundraising campaign. Unfortunatley, before he could realize his dream his life was cut short while serving his country.
Taking the time to heal and deal with thier grief, Thomas' family and friends are now picking up the baton and moving forward with his dream. Having a track and field facility that would benefit student athletes, and would also bring the community together would be fitting to Thomas' character - he was always a person that helped others.
Thank you in advance for your kindness and consideration in making dreams come true!
With gratitude,
The Family of Captain Thomas J. Heitmann
Despite not having a track to practice on, Thomas developed into a star runner. He realized and understood that breaking down physical and mental barriers led to accomplishing goals and breaking school records. Thomas still holds two of the Academy’s track and field records. The knowledge Thomas gained from track shaped him in other areas of his life, and he was able to achieve many additional accomplishments. Thomas had often dreamed about getting a track built at St.Bede in order to help and inspire future student athletes. Thomas realized that the disadvantage St. Bede runners have in comparison to other track programs in the area, is the lack of a training facility. So in 2010 Thomas reached out to his former High School track coach via email to see what could be done to start a fundraising campaign. Unfortunatley, before he could realize his dream his life was cut short while serving his country.
Taking the time to heal and deal with thier grief, Thomas' family and friends are now picking up the baton and moving forward with his dream. Having a track and field facility that would benefit student athletes, and would also bring the community together would be fitting to Thomas' character - he was always a person that helped others.
Thank you in advance for your kindness and consideration in making dreams come true!
With gratitude,
The Family of Captain Thomas J. Heitmann
Organizer and beneficiary
Thomas John Heitmann Memorial
Organizer
Peru, IL
Rhonda Schmidt
Beneficiary