DONOR SPOTLIGHT: DEREK AKER

When we need protective gear like Camelbaks, knee pads, boots and uniforms, Derek Aker is the person we call. If he doesn’t have it, he can get it. A former U.S. soldier who now owns a military surplus store in Colorado Springs, Derek donated three SUVs worth of protective and tactical gear to Ukraine to our Gear Donation Drive in May. “Though I have no hereditary connection to Ukraine, I'll always stand with a brave people trying to live free from Russian slavery. I believe all real and free men are Ukranians in their heart,” says Derek.

Derek was in the 41st Infantry division of the U.S. Army from 1985 to 1990 as an armorer working with weapons and running firing ranges, then became an officer. Some of Derek’s aid is already on the front lines in Ukraine, and the rest is on its way there by sea–all to help our heroes with the ongoing counteroffensive. Be like Derek! Help Ukraine with what you can, one SUV at a time! You can meet Derek on our youtube channel and, while you are there, subscribe to hear from other supporters and Defenders!