The Vikings and Crown Royal are proud to recognize this year's "That Deserves a Crown" award winners, honoring people who make positive impacts in the community. We were proud to host these service members at U.S. Bank Stadium, where the honorees received pre-game sideline passes, an autographed football and recognition on the video board.
Moises Dela Torre Week 2 vs. 49ers
Moises Dela Torre is known by those around him as someone who is constantly seeking out ways to help and serve the community. In addition to working two jobs, the first being an educator within the Minneapolis public school system, Dela Torre also volunteers for Mi Casa Coaching, mentoring Latino youth. He is referred to by loved ones as "an admirable person and true example of inspiration." Dela Torre is a leader and consistent positive presence.
Joe Girtz Week 3 vs. Texans
Currently serving in the Minnesota Air National Guard, Joe Girtz has served more than 23 years in the United States Armed Forces and has deployed to Qatar, Iraq and Afghanistan. Besides working full-time for the MNANG 210th Engineering Installation Squadron, he volunteers as a Cub Scouts pack leader and cub master, a football and baseball coach and as an assistant softball coach. Girtz is an active member of his local VFW and consistently a generous community volunteer. As his wife says, he's most importantly an amazing husband and father to the couple's three children.
Perry Gunderson Week 7 vs. Lions
1SG Perry Gunderson (ret.) served in the Minnesota Army National Guard for 27 years, serving two tours in Iraq and several state-side assignments. He and his wife have six children together, including daughter Sophia who followed in her father's footsteps and currently serves in the U.S. Army as a 2LT. Gunderson's third-born, Joel, planned to enlist in the U.S. Air Force in hopes of becoming a pilot but was tragically killed in May after suffering carbon monoxide poisoning in an automobile accident. He passed just two weeks before graduating high school. Despite suffering the greatest loss of his life, Gunderson has continued to show up daily for his family, friends and employees. He attended each of Joel's friend's graduation parties on behalf of his son, as well as attending weekly Grief Share meetings with them.
Alan Curb Week 9 vs. Colts
Alan "Boo" Curb is a lifelong resident of Minnesota, an avid Vikings fan and, most importantly, a U.S. Army veteran who served in the front lines of the Vietnam War. He was wounded in combat and later had his foot amputated, resulting in the presentation of a Purple Heart. Curb has a big heart and has devoted his life to supporting his family and anyone around him who needs it without expectation of recognition or repayment. Currently residing in Bemidji, he's a true friend for all, always offering a smile and helping hand.
Nick Kinneberg Week 13 vs. Cardinals
From serving in the U.S. Air Force from 2001-11 and then in the Army Reserves from 2011-22, Nick Kinneberg has committed his life to serving our country. During the latter service period, he worked long hours pouring concrete during the week before heading to weekend drill. Kinneberg additionally served his immediate community as a volunteer firefighter. His daughter says, "Dad's work ethic is one I truly hope I can live up to in my life." Kinneberg is a lifelong Vikings fan who whole-heartedly supports the Purple and Gold through the ups and downs.
Matt Boelke Week 14 vs. Falcons
Matt Boelke is a committed educator who not only invests in his students on a daily basis but also serves as a mentor for student teachers. He holds his students to high standards but also never stops advocating and supporting them, even in challenging situations. According to one of his student teachers, "He would often go out of his way to engage with students in and out of the classroom." Boelke stepped in as a pseudo parent figure for one of his students when he lost his mother during the COVID-19 pandemic, and he has supported that young man and his family ever since. He additionally serves as the assistant varsity wrestling coach at his school and this year coached the first two girls in program history to place in the Minnesota State tournament. The amount of time and effort Boelke dedicates is reflected in the success and high character of his students.
Steve Hoppe Week 15 vs. Bears
Steve Hoppe is an Air Force Veteran who actively served our country from 1997-2001, retiring from the Air Force Reserve in 2005. Whether through fundraising or helping build ramps for disabled veterans in need, he is passionate about supporting his fellow former servicemembers. Hoppe currently is an active community member in Elysian, Minnesota, where he serves as the President of the American Legion Elysian Post 311 Little League; he has volunteered countless hours with the program and donated his own finances toward new baseball fields and dugouts. When not in meetings, he can be found coaching or umpiring youth games. Additionally, Hoppe serves as Director of the Baseball Association of the Morristown Babe Ruth League, coaching 14- and 15-year-olds, and is the equipment manager for his local youth hockey association.
Michael Sirois Week 17 vs. Packers
This year, Michael Sirois was deployed oversees for three months. During that time, he was able to quickly respond to a friend who suffered a life-threatening head injury, getting him to safety and then administering life-saving aid until he could be transported to a medical facility. Sirois also volunteered during deployment to take on a job above his rank in order to support the team. He was personally thanked from leadership at the end of his deployment for not only stepping into the role but also executing at a high level. Sirois is a proud husband and father of a 2-year-old son.
