Making a difference in one’s community – one’s world – can take on many forms. And the results of those good deeds touch many in the here and now, while forming a lasting legacy that touches future generations.

That is why The Mexico Ledger honors Hidden Heroes.

Terry “TJ” Gruer Jr. serves his family, country and community.

Gruer is a U.S. Army veteran who spent 15 months in Baghdad. He was born and raised in Mexico as the oldest of four children and is a graduate of Mexico High School.

Since returning home from serving in the military, Gruer has been volunteering for a number of organizations that combine his love for the outdoors with his giving nature.

“Almost everybody has enough downside,” his father, Terry Gruer Sr., said. “He just tries to share what he enjoys with other people, hoping it will help them feel better too.”

And one of Gruer’s main passions is spoonbill fishing, otherwise known as snagging.

Gruer volunteers with Hope Outdoors — a ministry that takes adults and children with special needs on various fishing and hunting trips throughout the year. Most recently, he participated in a two-day snagging trip on April 24 and 25 for Hope Outdoors Kids. On the first day of the trip, Gruer estimated the group caught 68 keepers.

Days earlier, Gruer, who is also a B4 Outdoors outreach member, completed a successful two-day snagging trip followed by a two-day turkey hunting trip for veterans. B4 Outdoors is a nonprofit that organizes “transformative outdoor experiences through hunting and fishing trips” for veterans, first responders and law enforcement officers.

“He is the epitome of selfless service,” Kevin Rhodes with B4 Outdoors, said. “He’s one of the most generous people I’ve ever met and he would give you the shirt off his back.”

Even when he’s not volunteering, chances are Gruer is out fishing on his boat.

He was nominated as a Hidden Hero by his aunt, Kathy Crawford.

“He’s humble,” Crawford said. “He is very down to earth — what we would call ‘old school.’”

Crawford was inspired to nominate her nephew after he came to her house to split wood for her all by himself when her husband was recovering from an appendectomy. Gruer’s selfless display of charity reminded her of just how willing he is to help anyone in need.

“At one time, he called himself, ‘I’ll be your Huckleberry,’” Crawford said. “If you’ve got something that needs to be done or that you’re wanting to get rid of that can still be useful, he’ll do that.”
A family man through and through, Gruer somehow manages to balance his job at ADM with his volunteer efforts and still make time for his family.

“It’s not an option,” Gruer said. “You just do it.”

Gruer’s father said Hidden Heroes are everywhere in our community — serving and helping others without looking for recognition.

“He does not do it for the recognition or anything,” Terry Sr. said. “He’s just trying to be helpful and help people enjoy life.”