Texas native Derr selected as Astros' Hero winner

ST. LOUIS -- Dennis Derr was selected as the Astros' representative for the "Tribute for Heroes" campaign, a national initiative by Major League Baseball and People Magazine that recognizes veterans and military service members.

Derr, of League City, Texas, served as an Infantryman in the Marines for seven years before medically retiring due to injuries incurred in combat. In addition to a Purple Heart, Derr was awarded a Bronze Star medal with Combat "V".

He volunteers with Houston-area organizations that benefit wounded warriors, such as Impact a Hero and Combat Marine Outdoors, which hosts hunting and fishing trips for hospitalized veterans in San Antonio.

Derr will join 29 other winners, one for each Major League club, in New York to take part in All-Star Week festivities and will be honored during a pregame ceremony for the July 16th All-Star Game at Citi Field. Winners were selected by online fan vote.

Further information on all of the "Tribute for Heroes" winners can be found at TributeForHeroes.com.