My dad is The Great American Dad because my entire life, he always made me the most important thing in his life and he made sure I knew it. When growing up, my dad was always there for me, he came to my school plays, he cheered me on when I competed in sporting events and he took the time to help me with homework. He was there to see me graduate from college, he helped me move to my first job and he both financially and emotionally supported me when I started my company. My father sacrificed to be a great dad, it took time and effort to be a great father and I am the man I am because of my father’s actions. My father is now suffering from both cancer and heart disease and I quit my job and returned home to South Florida to do for him, what he did for me my whole life. My wife and I decided to live next to my father to be able to take care of him, keep his spirits high and above all to show him how important he is to me and our family.

My dad is an avid baseball fan. Our family outings always revolved around baseball and visiting different stadiums. This prize would be perfect for my dad not only because of his love for the game, but it would also be a nice getting away from this past year. My dad has been suffering and was diagnosed this year with Muscular Dystrophy, Lupus and Mitochondrial Myopathy. It is so hard to see him go through this because my dad has always been there for us. He has been our rock and has been strong and dedicated to his family. The thing I love about my dad is his fun loving positive spirit, he never complains even though he is in pain every day. He was even like this when we were kids, he always remains positive even in struggles of every day life. He always found humor no matter how hard a situation was. Even though his body isn't as strong as it used to be I still consider my dad to be the same strong dedicated role model I grew up with. He truly is the World Greatest Dad and would be a great person to receive this prize!

My dad is the greatest. He is always coming up with statements that my physics teacher and I called Eddie-isms. They are usually so funny and everyone loves them. Other than this, my dad is very quiet. He does not say much but he loves taking me to movies and he did cry at my Graduation after I gave my valedictorian speech. He is the best dad and I will miss him when I go away to college.

Unconditional love.

My father is the person you can count on no matter what. He served in the US ARMY & US COAST GUARD as an officer for over 37 Years. He was a federal Special Agent for over 20 years. He has been my best friend my whole life and always has the correct answer and a helping hand.He is active in many organizations that make peoples lives better and the country a better place.He sends a letter to each of his grand children every week.He is an all American Dad.

My Dad is like a warm, scrumptious home baked cookie. He has been with me through thick and thin, always ready to support me and my brother. When my Mom walked out on our family seven years ago, my Dad tackled the overwhelming responsibility and burden of raising two children under the age of ten head on. He took on several manual jobs despite his poor health. Despite having limited English proficiency, he worked hard to allow his family to stay in America to receive what he believed was the best public education in the world. Today, despite having had a significant drop in business due to the recent economic downturn, he stays positive and upbeat for us, his children, and remains an active citizen in the community. Despite all the hardship he has gone through, he has never complained or whined, and always is eager to help others in need. My Dad is the very epitome of the Great American Dad- kind, generous, hardworking, and strong,- and is and always will be my hero.

My name is Kimberly Scarduzio and my dad is a true hero. In 2009, my dad became 100 % disabled. In the 80's, my dad was in the navy and got bit by a tick, which later turned into Lyme Disease. Because of that tick, he now is 100 % disabled and a handicapped veteran. No matter how hard it is for my dad to wake up each morning in excruciating pain, he still has a smile on his face and would do whatever it takes to make his family happy. He always is encouraging us to go for our dreams and to never give up, and he is the true face of adversity. He successfully managed a business and is now the owner of a beautiful vacation home. Although his health is not at its best, he still pushes on and strives to be the best father he always has and always will be.

I feel my Dad is "The Great American Dad". My dad has been there for me my entire life. He taught me how to ride a bike, do my homework as soon as i got home from school and to do household chores twice a week. He worked real hard traveling 100 miles daily. He taught me to leave home for work at least 30 minutes earlier. Because you don't know what you may run into such as traffic, a train or any unexpected encounter you might have.He always gave me Constructive Critisim as he calls it. I hated when he would start pointing out different things, that as a teenager you did'nt want to hear. But, as an adult i could now appreciate it. Well 2011 was a bad year for my dad health wise. He had a Severe Heart Attack on April 18, 2011. He had 80 percent blockage. He got better from that and went back to work in October. On the day after Thanksgiving he had a Stroke. It has been 5 months now and he's doing better. He just had a 59th Birthday on yesterday. May 27th.

My dad has never been around. Although he lives only 10 minutes from us he might as well live half way around the world. My mom is the best. She has taken me, my sister and my brother to soccer practice and games for the past 10 years. My dad has only showed up to 1 game. My mom deserves Mothers Day and Fathers Day recognition. She has taken my dads place and has never complained about it. She tries to teach my little brother how to treat girls and teach him to be a better man than my dad has shown him to be.

I believe my dad is the Great American Dad. He does his hardest to support my family even though we don't have very much money. A couple of months ago he lost his job, but that doesn't stop him from doing the best that he can. Greatfully, he found one and is now doing better. He supports my brothers and I in all of our activites. Coaching both of my brothers in baseball and wanting them to succeed like he did playing college ball. He's the most loving, caring, hard-working guy I know and always has an answer for everything. Maybe he hasn't ever fought in the war or doesn't have the highest paying job. He's the best dad I could ever ask for and I sure am glad to call him my "Great American Dad."

Daddy has raised 6 girls into women that love & respect him for all that he has taught us. He has helped to shape all of our lives with his wisdom, understanding and by teaching us how to love, show respect for others, be honest with ourselves and others & to have a charitable heart. Even while raising 6 little ones we still witnessed him give to others in need to bless them, he taught us that this in turn blessed our family as well. Even though we are all grown with our own families, he continues to teach & love each one of us unconditionally. He is an inspiration to many. And after 42 years of marriage he still loves & cherishes our Mother with paramount adoration. Even though it was no small feat, never once have I heard my Dad complain or show negativity about living with 7 women and all that this has entailed over the years. Even in the face of adversity he taught his children to look at their blessings and overcome hardships. For all of this I thank him for being the “World’s Greatest and Most Loving Dad”!

My Husband is a great Father to our three boys and deserves a great Father's Day! We will give him one even if it's "Don't ask Dad for anything today but what would you like us to do for you." ;)

My dad is a Great American Dad because he has always made time for me and has been there to encourage me, console me during sad times and to celebrate my successes. He is an inspiration to me and my entire family.

Because he loves us all more than his self, and his wife died 2 weeks ago. and I love him.

My dad will be 75 this year! It's crazy! This man sacrificed everything for his family! Worked 3 jobs when he was laid off in 1980's, wore his shoes and clothes out so we could girls could have San Francisco Riding Gear jeans (popular in the 80's and a must for high school) LOL! My dad made sure we had what we needed to succeed. He coached us in soccer, worked 3 jobs when he was laid off in the 80's and simply asked that we do our best and be our best! When I was in choir (1983) we didn't have much and our choir was going to San Francisco for a Jazz Concert. My dad really wanted to go because he grew up there and wanted to take me around town! He couldn't afford it and for this 3 day trip, I only had $15 for food. He took me to the bus for my journey and handed me $50 and said "I know it's not much, but have fun and DONT TELL YOUR MOM). I would love to surprise him with this wonderful gift! Thanks for the opportunity!

My dad is my Uncle, who took me in when my parents died at age 6, Not being a rich man ha has worked so hard for me. I have everything I could want for.He picks me up from band and debate everyday without so much as a complaint, While he waits in the hot car.He got me my sax and spent two years paying it off.He had hip surgery but still drove me to Austin to compete for state in both categories.He worked overtime for my letterman jacket. I could not ask for a more loving, caring father. He sacrifices everything to give me all I need. He is from Pennsylvania he wants to show me the north but we could never afford to go. He takes me to the Astro games whenever possible. But things have been tight the last couple of years.So we havent been in a long time.He loves the game of Baseball.He was in a softball league for years. I know I hear all the stories.I wouldn't trade him for the world.Or his unconditional love for me.

My Dad is a wonderful man, soon to be 80 years young. He was a full time worker and a full time farmer with 3 kids...Me being the older one,I had to "help out" more often than the younger ones. He was always patient, kind, never condeming, never mad! Always the gentle one, around his kids and his animals! After retiremetn he always did what Mom wanted to do, travel, visit etc...always submissive! He is getting older now and still goes on and on like he did at 30!

Being loving, caring, and helpful makes my dad a Great American Dad. I just got married a little over two months ago. I did not realize how expensive weddings were until I started planning my own. I made an excel spreadsheet with a list of vendors and approximate prices that each vendor would charge. I sent the excel spreadsheet to my dad since he used to do accounting for a living. Due to my dad knowing my financial circumstances he told me he would pay for half the wedding. My dad is an amazing man. I cried when he told me he would pay for half. I couldn’t believe it. My dad is on disability and I didn’t want him to spend money he didn’t have for my wedding. He told me “You’re my only daughter and I want to do this for you.” If I ever need anything whether it is emotional support or advice he is always there for me. Some people have never met their dad before or their parents are divorced and their dad is not in the picture much, I am very grateful to have such a wonderful dad.

My great American, for many years lit up the world for others. He decorated his home every year with over 100,000 Christmas lights, Santas, reindeer, Frosty, and a manger scene. He would hide behind a piece of scenery and when a car with children drove up, he would bellow, "Ho! Ho! Ho!" He literally worked from September to Thanksgiving getting it all out, then, from January to March to put it all away. It was a gift of love he shared with all.

Two very interesting coincidences are that growing up in upstate New York my Dad was a diehard baseball fan and he loved baking chocolate chip cookies! To go back to NY would be a dream for me.

The "Great American Dad" is my dad. He enjoys a hot dog or a hamburger more than the gourmet food mom makes. His favorite vacation would be watching baseball without being bothered! In ways I can not comprehend, he loves baseball! We are both in college, he studies with baseball on the TV or on the computer, while I study without any distractions and he still makes higher grades than me! He says he can recall his notes by specific parts of the baseball game. When he makes a not so good grade, he blames it on not being able to watch his baseball game. That's why he is a great American dad, but he is a great dad because he always puts his family's wishes before his. He is fine with doing the activities we want to do, or the places we want to go. He is always helping me become better in every way and helping understand the I think difficult concepts of college. I entered this contest because I feel like my dad deserves the opportunity for once to go to a place where he'll be surrounded by his great awe of baseball greats.

My dad deserves the title of All American Dad because is a devoted father, grandfather and husband. He loves sports of all kinds and shares that love of sports with our whole family. I remember attending baseball and hockey games when I was a kid. I also remember him not missing any games and now he does everything he can to attend all of the grandkids games. He is our number one fan and to us he is our All American Dad.

man what a cookie give me some with milk cold nght slightly warmed sweet honey sittin close its heaven on earth

My husband, Ruben, is the greatest father I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. As parents, we have sacrificed anything and everything to provide for our children. Now, my husband and I have continued this trend with our granddaughter. When our children were little, my husband struggled with drinking, but he overcame this obstacle by instilling his extra time coaching our children’s baseball teams. The sport of baseball is truly a life saver for my husband because it made him realize how much of a difference he can make in his children’s lives but just being there every step of the way. Ruben has now been a father for 31 years, and I swear he has never let his children down once. Even with an incurable illness, he has continued to be a framer for about 40 years, and he will not stop working until his family has everything they need. As a wife, I know my husband will never tell me when he is truly hurt or in pain because he feels like he needs to be strong for his family. For once, I want him to be honored for the great American dad he is.

My dad is simply a man who works hard to overcome the obstacles that face him in everyday life. He is the person I aspire to be one day because he is so willing to place his family before his own needs. As a child, I realized my dad was just not an ordinary dad. He is truly a superhero who protects, nurtures, and provides for me and the rest of the family. His occupation is framing, but his title is “Great American Dad.” He will be 55 this year, and he is still working hard to provide even though he has a terrible illness. I just wish I could give him the world, but I promise I will help him as soon as I graduate college. He is for sure the best father in the world, and I love him very much.

My dad is a Great American dad. He has been a great father to me and my brothers. He has been an umpire for the last 34 years. So he has had an influence on many lives. As a dad he has always been there to support his children and now his grandchildren. He has always been there to give advice and would support us in all decisions we make. He may have not been able to give us a lot of physicals things but he gave us love and support no matter what. My dad has an unconditional love for us that words can not describe and I know I can alwayd count on him. My dad always wanted to take us to the Baseball Hall of Fame but never has the opportunity to. I would love to give him his dream of seeing the Baseball Hall of Fame. He is such a fan of the game that I know something like this would mean the world to him!!! Fathers go unrecognized at times and I would love to have my dad recognized by your company, since he of course is a huge chocolate chip cookie fan!!

My husband Paul is the best dad because he is more than just a father. When I decided to start my career as a probation officer, my sons were five-and seven-years- old. My very first assignment sent me at camp and away from home seven days at a time. Not only did my husband not complain; he excelled at his role of both mother and father. His wonderful parenting gave me the peace of mind I needed to excel. Paul is an “All-Star Dad” whose skill, patience and love raised two wonderful and productive sons. Our oldest is a NASCAR driver and our youngest has his own plumbing company. I just retired after twenty-three years in the Probation Department after obtaining the rank of supervisor. Paul listened to all my gripping along the way and always had good sound advice to give me. He is loving, smart, caring, and funny. In their thirties - our children still call him daily for his advice, love and support! It is funny because if they are sick or hurt they call him to find out what they should do. My husband is the best spouse, mother, and father! He makes our family awesome.

my grandpa has been my dad since my mom and dad were divorced since i was 5 yrs.old.he is the best.he will help anyone out.he will lend money,or food if we need it.if we need a car repair that comes up,a appliance goes out.he is always there.im his church he has help people.everyone likes him and gets along with him.he is the best dad around.

I consider my father to be the best dad because he is a very loving, family man. He will go out of his way not only for his family but to ensure that other families have what they need also. I am a (34) year old college student and my dad helps me out trememdously with my (2) kids and my bills because their parents fail to do so. I appreciate him so much, being that he always worked so hard when I was a child that he couldnt do this, he takes out time from work to make sure they are where they need to be for stepping in to not only be a father to me but a great grandfather to them, This is why my father and I deserve this trip

Because he faught for his country, he faught to help his family through the depression, and he faught to take care of his family after our mother divorced him.

Why is my dad the Great American Dad? Where do I begin? My dad is the most encouraging, supportive, sympathetic, and caring dad ever. He is always telling me how proud of me he is, and he is a great support system. Everything I do, I want to make him proud. My brother, sister and I cause our family to be very busy, and he assists with all he can without any complaints. He gladly attempts to attend every activity that any of my siblings or I participate in. Whether I win this contest or not, my dad will appreciate me trying to show my gratitude to on Fathers Day in a way that I enjoy. I know my dad hit a home run in my life, and I hope his Fathers Day is out of the park. I am asking on behalf of my whole family, please crown my dad as the Great American Dad, because thanks to him,I feel like I hit a grand slam every day!

My husband Ben was born with a rare type of muscular dystrophy, which makes him weak, but able to walk and lead a fairly normal life. Despite this challenge, he coached both of our sons' little league teams. Even in the "coach pitch" division, he wanted to be the coach pitching to them during the games. Our boys are now 13 and 15. They play starting positions for their jr. high and high school teams. This is largely because Ben has always taken them to practices and games. He's always given them practical tips and, more importantly, lots of encouragement. He loves supporting them and cheering them on. I believe he deserves the MVD award for being the "Most Valuable Dad".

My dad is retired from the Air Force, and still works a full time job. He is 70 yrs old and deserves a vavcation. He has served his country well, and has made me the mom I am today with his kindness and values.

My Dad the most important thing and that is give us time together and help us when we needed it. He also fought for us in WWII after barely surviving the Great Depression. He died last year at 87 years old and our whole family misses him. Thank you for another chance to remember him and what he meant to us.

I could shout his name from the rooftops and tattoo his name on my skin, and yet my Husband, Father of our 3 year old daughter, would never know how truly blessed we are to have him. He is the best "Father" figure I know. My Dad doesn't even come close to how much my Husband sacrifices for our child and myself. He has worked 12 hour shifts for years now, and constantly struggles. He is the reason I pulled out of a deep depression 10 years ago. He is fun loving, unselfish, extremely hard working, and generous. Yet I can never repay him, financially. He LOVES baseball, thats his 2nd love (after his wife and daughter.) So, this would be AWESOME to give this to him. Life's so short. Making memories, especially for the real everyday Hero's is what Life and Love is all about.

When I heard of the words Fathers day, I didn’t fully understand it or get the concept of it. But when my Mom told me about it, I am excited every year to get my step dad something special. When I was 4 years old, my Dad died from a stenosis in his heart. He was born with a bicuspid aortic value. He died when we was running the Indianapolis Marathon from a condition he didn’t know he had. After a couple years my Mom found another man that was really special to her and was my Dad and Mom friend. His name is Jason and now he is my Dad. The first time I heard that they were getting married, I didn’t want to have another dad in my life because he would never replace my actual Dad. So when they got married, I didn’t feel like he would be apart of this family. But after a couple years he turned out to be a great step Dad who cares about me, I want him to know that I appreciate that very much. I want him to have a great Fathers Day this year.

My father isn't just a war hero; he is my personal hero! He became my father at 4yrs and my dad at 12. He gave us everything we needed, plus wanted. He was very supportive when my biological father become sick & died in Nov, knowing he did nothing but for me. My dad is a great grandfather also. When we are unable to do for our kids—he just DOES IT: from keeping them when I was in college to 4 months away at training. HE does for others: spending his retirement years volunteering and gathering donations for the Shriner's hospital. I love him so much and really saw how much when he had his heart attack 13 years ago and I was the one that had to sign for his life. My mom was 12 hours away, taking my nephew home when I got the call to go to the hospital. He died 3 times on the table waiting for the signature to do surgery. I realized that day how much I love him UNCONDITIONALLY and how precise life is. We Are Already WINNERS, We have Him in Our Daily Lives!

When I am out of patience and at my wits end with our three children I am humbled by seeing my husband Ronnie interact with them. It doesn't matter if our youngest child wants to discuss the events of his day, minute by minute, or our oldest child has missed the bus again, or our middle child didn't bother to do his chores, all situations are handled with love and patience. No matter what mistakes they make, the children know that their father will never judge or criticize them. He is always the first to engage them in physical activities like riding bikes and encourages them to read every night. He tirelessly ensures that they get ready every morning and makes sure to always be there for them when they get home from school. I truly admire and strive to be more like him and I think whether the children realize it yet or not, they strive to be like him too. Ronnie's kindness with everyone, lack of judgment and ability to see the positives makes him a truly Great American Dad.

My father deserves a great honor for being a very caring and supportive father for his family. My father worked hard his entire life to give his family a great life with every opportunity. He lived far away from his family for a decade because of his job. This job allowed his family to live very comfortably and paid for their education. While he had to cook and clean for himself in a one bedroom apartment 3 states away. Now my father is retired and enjoys taking care of his grand kids and reading all the books he never had time for. I believe my father deserves this award because of his love of baseball and his selfless actions. He is truly the definition of father because of his love for his family and dedication to their well being. Thank you Dad for giving me the life that you never had and being their when I needed you.

My dad is amazing! He's the father of 6 children all of which he supports in our differences. He's the one out there on the field at every practice with you. He's the one who leaves straight from work to make it to your choir recital. He's the one on his knees every night praying for healing for his child. He's the backbone of our family; the purest example of a Godly father. He loves our Lord, he loves his family, and he loves this country. Proud to be an American? Oh yes! But more proud to be my father's daughter. Dad I love you, you're my hero!

My Dad is the "Great American Dad" to me because he always uses his faith in God even when things are going wrong. He lost his wife in 2001 after a long ordeal with cancer and stayed by her side taking care of her at home without any outside help. He cares for me when I am ill. I have been hospitalized several times for different issues and every time he was there to offer comfort and support. Right now I am going through a divorce and he has offered to open his home to me and my children when the time comes for me to leave until I can get on my feet. He is so giving and loving and would give anyone the shirt off his back if they needed it. He is such a humorous man, always telling jokes and making people laugh. He served in the Gulf of Mexico way back in the late 60's early 70's He is 69 this year and I think he deserves a little recognition for who he is and does! I love my Dad, and you would too if you ever met him! Oh and he LOVES cookies!!

My dad is a Great American dad because my dad is there for me when i'm ill or in the hospital fighting MRSA. My dad is always there for me and my three little sisters. He'd do anything humanly possible to make sure we're safe and healthy. My dad is amazing and the BEST(:. I couldn't imagine anyone else being my daddy. He's mine(and my three sistrs') and no one can EVER replace him.

My father is the Dad in the world. He would do anything for anyone. My father served his county during the vietnam war. He is 75 years old and is still farming. He has gone through double knee surgery during the down down for farming, so he could be back in time for the planting season. I am the 2nd oldes of 8 children. My mother recently had emergency surgery and my dad was at my mothers side along with all my other brothers and sisters. My father is a very positive person and finds the good in people. He is very special in the lives of my children. My father is very respected.

my dad is the great amercian dad because he is a hardworker and he do alot of stuff around just to support me and my 2 sisters. he been in my life for 15 years and he never stop. My Dad Is The Great American Dad!!!!

My dad is the best in the world because he is the strongest man I have ever known. He lost his own dad recently, yet he showed me his ability to carry on through all the heartache with a smile. He never stops loving our family, and for that reason, he is a homerun hitter in my life! He is constantly showing his passion for life and baseball by attending his son's games and cheering him on, no matter how the game is going. He taught me a lot through basebal. He showed me that you can't let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game. My dad said this to me when I was young: "Life will always throw you curveballs, but just keep fouling them off; the right pitch will eventually come." He taught me these and many more lessons through baseball; we have family members named after pitchers! His love for the game, and most importantly, his family, is why he is the most special and influential man in my life. I love you Dad. You are a grand slam of a blessing in my life!

I would love to be able to take my husband. We have never been able to leave Fort Smith, AR and I believe it would be a great experience for him. He was recently diagnosed with Diabetes and I just lost my job so times are hard. It would be a great vacation for us.

My husband is my rock and he is unequivocally the GREAT AMERICAN DAD! My husband is a hard working man who is selfless and puts his family first. My GREAT AMERICAN DAD enjoys life to the fullest, loves to relax, eat and make great memories when he is not working in the shipping port. My husband adores his children and often gives family and friends his last. We have not traveled in a couple of years because he sacrifices himself to work to provide for our family. My GREAT AMERICAN DAD deserves to be your GREAT AMERICAN DAD too.

My Dad Always glad, rarely mad Makes me laugh, gives us a bath Tucks us in, makes us grin Helps to ride my bike, we go on a hike Jumps up and down, yes he’s a clown Loves my mom, is usually calm He cooks and cleans and treats his girls like queens Plays ball outside, slides with me down the slide He mows the lawn with all his brawn Grills outside and takes life in stride He’s my dad, he’s lots of fun, he’s #1

My father is by far and large the best dad ever. Why you may ask? When I gave birth to my second child he went in and ran my business to give me maternity leave, did I mention I owned a busy daycare? Shortly after an F5 tornado hit our town and damaged my home but completely destroyed my fathers with him in it, by the grace of god he survived. Now his sole focus has been to rebuild his life and make sure his home is the most safe and fun place for all of his grandchildren. What a Great DAD!

There is no doubt in my mind that my dad is the ultimate Greatest American Dad! Throughout my 21 years of life, my dad has worked hard to provide a stable and fulfilling environment for not only me and my three biological siblings but also my two step brothers. With that not being enough, he is also a veteran, having served in the Air-force for many years. My dad is the hardest working man that I know! My dad knows what needs to be done and he gets it done, no questions asked. My dad has always made time for his family. Even though my dad works A LOT, he has always been there for all of us no matter what! My dad has made it to every one of all our school, sports and extracurricular activities, all the way from from being scout master to just sitting and watching our choir performances. My dad's first priority is his children. My dad would do anything for us no matter what. I am so PROUD and THANKFUL for my dad!!! Thank you so much for all you do for all of us dad, I love you:) Happy Fathers Day, Dad!

Great American Dad? Even these words cannot described how great my dad is. A better title to describe him is Best American Dad. My dad is my role model. In everything he does he id thinking about me. He is hardworking, intelligent, and a person who strives to do his best in everything he does. He is the type of person who will go to all events there is at my school and ask"Is there anything I can do to help?" He has shown me that there is always hope for the future. My Father always pushes me to do my best and encourages me to never give up. It is because of him and his incredible will for me to have a great future that I am the top ranked academically ranked student in my grade with about four-hundred students.. He makes sure i am always happy and will make sure that nobody tries to take that right away from me. I am lucky to have such a great father who I believe is the Great American Dad.

Not all of us are lucky to have their natural Father in their lives but sometimes a man comes into their life that shows us what a Dad really is! That would be my Better Half's Dad. The first time I met him, he welcomed me with a hug and accepted me into the family as one of their own. He was a person to be proud of...a man who served his country abroad in the Air Force and at home as a Police Officer. He shared a passion with his family of the All American sport Baseball. Unfortunately, he passed away. It would be my honor to take his son to the Baseball Hall of Fame in his memory. I miss him and was proud to call him Dad. To AL... A good man, a Great DAD!

My father is my role model. A Vietnam Vet and a 30+ year retiree. He worked 70-80 hours a week for most of his adult life to support his wife and 5 kids. He never had much money in his pocket, but he made sure his kids never wanted for anything. He still has very little, but that doesn't stop him from letting 2 of his adult children (with children of there own) live in his house with him and my mother because times are hard. He gives and gives and NEVER asks for anything in return. He has a compassion like I have never seen in a person before. He is from a different generation that didn't give up or give in. He truly rolls with the punches. We need more Great American Dads like him nowadays more than ever. As an avid baseball fan (growing up in Bronx, NY - Go Yankees) he would love nothing more than a trip to Cooperstown.

MY FATHER (ROGER)He is the best dad. Iwould do anything for hiim. If there is something wrong with anything like (car or my house ne would think of me and my kids )he is the greats dad .I am 40 and he still helps me with houseing anything .Ilove my father he means the would to us.Even if a frind needs anything he would do for them.He is a hard worker he works for the the older people doing (yard work) when it is very hot out. I LOVE MY DADDY HE IS THE BEST .GOD GAVE ME HIM

My Dad is a 3 time cancer survivor! He is not only my personal hero but also the hero of his entire town of Evansville, WI. He donates his time to other cancer patients and volunteers at Evansville nursing home. He has the biggest heart of anyone I have ever met. If there is one person in this universe that deserves this, it is my Dad. It has always been his lifelong dream to visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame. His favorite Baseball player is Ty Cobb and is featured in the Hall of Fame. My Dad is the greatest American Dad and nothing in the Universe would give me greater pleasure than to help him fulfill is final wish of seeing National Baseball Hall of Fame.

There is no doubt in my mind that my dad is the Greatest American Dad! Throughout my 19 years of life, my dad has worked two jobs; one full time and the other part time. With that not being enough, he has served 22 years in the Navy. He is now retired from the Navy. He enjoyed serving his country. My dad is the hardest working man that I know! My dad knows what needs to be done and he gets it done. My dad still makes time for my family. Even though my dad works A LOT, he has always been there for me! My dad has made it to every one of my school events. My dad's first priority is his children. My dad would do anything for us. Right now, my parents are paying for my college because they want a better life for me. My parent's would be financially stable with my dad working the one job, but he works his other job to help me. I am so PROUD and THANKFUL for my dad!!! Thank you so much for all you do dad, I love you:) Happy Fathers Day, Dad!

My husband is the greatest american dad because even thou is disabled he still goes out everyday to support me and our daughter. I'm unable to work because our daughter has Aspbergers Syndrome and ADHA with other health problems and he goes out of his way to make her happy and is a very big part of her life and does so much with her also. We believe he is the greatest dad. We love him for everything he is unable to for us as well because just having him is the greatest reward there is to us. He maybe disabled and it kills him to work everyday but that is just the kind of man he is and that makes him special in every way possible. We Love Very Much and he is the Greatest American Dad and Husband in our eyes and world. Thank you for the chance to tell you our speical man in our life.

My husband is the best dad in the world. When he married me he told my children he was also marring them! He has held true to his words, we have had 2 children together and treats them no different then my children! He has and will drop everything when they need or just want him! We are truely blessed to have found this man and are very thankful everyday for his love...

My dad is the best dad in the world because he helps in what we need when we starting our teenager years and That why im in collage.My brother likes my dad when he comes from work tell us what happen in school today.For yall listening this is the best dad in the world at doing everything

My Dad is THE Great American Dad because he is the most amazing man I know. I was adopted when I was 9 years old and am an only child. He was, and is, always there for me, no matter what. No matter how many mistakes I've made or what kind of issues I've gone though, he has never given up on me. He works very hard to support the family and I have never once heard him complain when life got hard. He is the strongest man I know and I am so proud that I get to call him Dad. To the world, he may just be one person, but to THIS one person, he is the world.

I would like to nominate my husband Steve. He is such an amazing role model to our two sons ages 5 and 2. He works so hard everyday to provide for our family. As a firefighter & paramedic, you see a lot of horrible things & go through so much stress on the job, and he never seems to bring that home. He is always there to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and through all the things we have been through, such as 3 car accidents in 2 years, multiple surgery's,our 2 year old going through respiratory failure and myself almost dying after our 2nd son was born, he has remained strong,and been by our sides through it all. I think he is the best husband and the most amazing father and I think he deserves a trip like this to take a break from it all and as a "Thanks" for what he does for his family,friends and the city he works for.

Having an active duty military husband means being apart months at a time. The nights I've spent rocking our crying little boys to sleep because they missed daddy are too numerous to count. But the effort my husband makes to bring smiles to our faces, even when we are not together, is amazing. He walked almost a mile while in Baghdad to use a phone and call us every day. Our kids have pillowcases with daddy's picture on them to snuggle with at night, but seeing them run and jump into daddy's arms each time he returns home still brings tears to my eyes. Time away from family is a sacrifice my husband and other military members know will eventually happen, but their commitment gives all of us the opportunities and freedoms we have today. I know I already have a "Great American Dad" for my boys! Cheers to all the American dads!

My father, now 72 years old, is still a working chemical engineer. He was raised during the depression and is always very frugal, though very giving to others. I can remember as a child I was always keeping an eye out for coins, nuts, bolts, any odds and ends that may be lying in the street because nothing pleased him more than to receive a "free" treasure. (I'm sure that some of that over-excitement was for my benefit, but he always saved and used them for one purpose or another). He has raised three successful children and has devoted his life to us. He does not spend money on his comfort or on unnececessary things. He's an all-american dad because he knows the value of the american dream and the american dollar. He works hard and doesn't take anything for granted. He is my hero!

I would like to nominate myself. The reason is, I have never had a father figure in my life. When I had my child, I told her that I would never do her the way my father did me. And that I would always be there for her, to protect her, and to provide for her. I never knew my father. I wish I did, so that he could teach me how to be a man and how to treat a woman and to raise his kids up in the correct manner, how to love GOD and to depend on him, and that a family that prays together stay together. To teach me how to fish and hunt, how to work on a car, and teach me how to play football. Because I wanted all those things, I will make sure that my kids will always have that in a father/male role model. I will never leave them. Will always be there for them to make sure they have all they will ever need and some of the things that they want. we cant give them everything they want, they need to know how to get out and work.

My dad is the greatest dad because he is someone that I can look up to. He is always there for me and he gives me the best advice for any and every thing that I am going through. He always pushes me to do my best and even though sometimes we don't see eye to eye, I love him more than anybody will ever know. I have the best dad that any daughter could ask for and I wouldn't change anything about him. Thank you, Daddy.

Sometimes it is hard to put into words what my dad means to me, but I will do my best! My dad is very special because he not only has a wonderful dad himself, my granddad, but he has the most perfect and amazing example of a dad from his Heavenly DAD! My dad loves God more than anything and I am so thankful that he can teach me also what it means about loving God and making Him the most important thing in my life. Another thing why my dad is great is because he loves BASEBALL! Most importantly, Cardinals baseball!! When I was born he was already wanting to take me outside and play catch! He grew up watching and playing baseball with his dad and he is so excited to pass on the love of baseball to me! I would love more than anything for my dad to be chosen for this contest. He always puts others first before himself and so I think he deserves something very special like this. I just bet if you had the chance to meet my dad, you would most definitely agree just how great he is!

My daddy is a Great American Dad. He is GREAT because my dad taught me the importance of doing your best in everything you do and that the most important things are God and family. My dad is American because he works hard and provides for our family while teaching each of us the importance of making the right choices in any situation, even if that means giving up something to do the right thing. And finally, he is my daddy and I love him very much! I enjoy our weekly phone conversations about randomness when I am away at college and I miss you lots! Love, Your biggest little girl

My dad is the Great American dad because he is honest, hardworking, and proud. He served in the Army before becoming a steelworker. And although he worked long days at a physically intensive job, he always had time to be a dad. We may not have always had the most money, but that was something my two brothers and I never realized. We always thought we were the rich, lucky ones. My dad has always been there to fix anything that he could – from a broken appliance to a broken heart. He was always my sternest critic and biggest cheerleader. My dad made sure we had all of the opportunities that he was not given having grown up on a farm in rural Illinois. I like to think that my brothers and I turned out to be successful in our professional careers, but even more importantly, in our personal relationships as loving parents and spouses. And, I know we have our dad, who lives by example, to credit for that.

When you think All-American Dad you think baseball and "being there" and my Dad fits both. My Dad taught baseball and usually lost because he took every kid who couldn't play due to disabilities etc. and he always let them actually play and went for ice cream after. He stood face to face when parents of "regular" kids screamed about losing and never backed down -just so the other kids could play. One time he went further than that. I wanted to play t-ball and was told that girls weren't allowed to play (this was before they had to be allowed to play). My dad started his own team with three girls on it so we could play and even won a medal. As for being there for me -he was the only Dad pinning me at my Girl Scout Ceremony while mom was with my brothers as they believed all kids needed support from both parents. He was there for others also -like when he was bringing kids who were unwanted home to spend the Holidays with us each year. A "Great" Dad to all-should be in the Hall of Fame- but visiting it will do!

My dad has always been there for us. He always tells us he loves us and makes sure we know it. I think my dad deserves a break as he has worked in a factory for most of my life and has not been able to take any nice vacations or breaks due to having to work to support our family. He just recently took care of my mom for three years while she battled cancer and has been through so much emotionally and physically. I think my dad deserves a much needed break!

I'll never forget my Dad letting me drive down dirt roads when I was little sitting on his lap (he was in total control). I spent countless hours in the garden and berry patch plant with him. He taught me how to be a beekeeper also. As I got older he has been there for me when no one else could. We don't always agree on things but I feel I got the best of him in me.

My Dad has / does / and always considers EVERYONE else before himself. He is eager to help... if not jumo in and do it himself. He deserves to be treated like a "King" if not but "once in a lifetime"... just as he is A once in a lifetime exceptional Dad

my dad is a caring and hard working dad. he is a great Godly man and takes care of my family.

I would nominate myself because i'm a father of a beautiful 10 month old baby that i am raising. I work and go to school yet still find time to be with my little girl and give her the attention and love that she truely deserves.

We have 4 sons. My husband works all day in a very stressful job and still manages to come home and spend quality time with the boys. He always trys to do some one on one time with each of them. He puts the kids and I first. He is a great dad.

My dad grew up without a father, but became the World’s Greatest Dad to me. He has always put me and my mother before anything else. He has sat through countless rainy, snowy, and hot ballgames for me in cheerleading, gymnastics, track, and softball from age 4-22 and still continues the tradition for each of my 3 sons. He has never missed a game or an event. He is there to fix all of my problems and help me out when needed. In fact, he is spending the day watching my boys right now while I am at work. I am sure that he has found something there to fix too. I'm 38 and he will still cut my grass or wash my car just to make me smile. He has never hesitated to tell me that he loves me and that he is proud of me. My dad has said that he has never won a trophy because he could not afford to play sports when he was young. His heart and spirit are bigger than any trophy that he could have ever won. My father is a humble, hard working, honest, and incredible man.

My Dad is a great American dad because he had to be both mom and dad to me and my 4 siblings. He had to strength to go on after my sister passed away even though he wanted to give up. He sacrificed so much for us & continues to do so to this day when he is able to. Now I am more taking care of him, which is an honor. He is the best person to win this and would love to go to the baseball Hall of Fame.

Who's Dad isn't The Great American Dad! I think that there are so many Dad's out there who are great at what they do and each child probably thinks they have the best one however I infact know that I happen to have the best Dad in the world! I grew up 2000 miles away from my Dad but that never stopped him from being there for me every time I needed him, whether I thought I did or not. My Dad has managed to be a full time Dad even though he could only spend part time with my brother and I. He was there to talk, comfort, support, encourage and just give everyday life lessons. I would love to be able to take him to see a baseball hall of fame and spend more quality time since it has been so few and far between that we actually get to see eachother. My Dad is just like what everyone else is saying their Dad is "The Great American Dad" only he's my "Allstar Great American Daddy"!

JAX #6. This is how I recognize my Dad. He has been my coach on and off the field in everything I do. My dad lives and breathes baseball as well as his family. After being laid off when I was young he worked any job he could muster to support my family. He was at every sporting event, pageant, concert, play, and everything in between with a smile on his face. My dad has the biggest heart. He now works in a nursing home during the day and is by his girlfriend's side every night as she battles Huntington's disease. I am the proudest daughter to call my best friend my father. To know I have all the love and support daily from him, all troubles fall away. I am returning home after living a year in Spain and I can't wait to wrap my arms around my dad's neck and give him the biggest hug. Your horse is running her race daddy, and I feel like I am winning every step of the way.

What makes my Dad an all american dad is the fact that he is 81 years old and still reading about and wanting to learn about American history. He is especially interested in learning and reading about all the past American presidents. He finds them all very interesting and shares his info with us his family. He was in the Army after he graduated from high school and talks about that alot. He loves America and always remembers Memorial Day by flying a US flag in his yard. Thanks Pat, his daughter.

My daad is a Great American Dad! He loves to hang out with me and my sister. He takes us fishing, comes to our concerts, and comes to school activites. He was there when I had cancer removed from my leg. My dad is a goofball, the best dad, and a best friend. My dad is a Great American Dad!

My dad is the best dad that I could have ever asked for! He raised four of us kids, ages 2-10, on his own when my mom decided to leave us. He worked hard and never let us kids know how hard it was or how financially strapped we really were. We were in all sorts of sports, played instruments and sang in choir and he never missed one game or concert. Now that he has grandkids he goes to almost every one of those games as well! He gives the best advice. We know we can count on him to be honest and objective. He has been our rock every single step of our lives. We know that he will always be there for us. He has given up so much in life for us kids and I don’t think he has ever thought twice about it! He has showed us what family is and what it means. I don’t think that any of us would be where we are in life without his never-ending love and support. My dad is the Great American Dad. He is my hero!

My dad is a Great American dad and hero. He is a loving, supportive father and has been there for me through thick and thin, despite not having that type of connection with his own father. As a firefighter for the past 33 years, he has rescued countless people, including many fathers who are alive today to celebrate Father's Day with their families because of his heroic actions. I know the world is full of great fathers, but I think my dad is a perfect choice to represent all the Great American Dads!

My husband and I have 4 children. He is able to juggle his time for our 18, 13, 9, and 2 year old impeccably. He is able to fill the individual need of each child without a beat. On top of everything, he is an 18 year active duty veteran. I am very honored to have such a deticated partner to share my life with and such a great role model for our children.

My daddy is the greatest father and grandfather that has ever been born. He is a father of four girls ages 24 to 14. He has always worked so hard so he could give us everything, but he is always there for us, no matter how busy or tired he may be. All throughout my childhood, he taught us everything we needed to know from sports to school. He is the smartest man I know and as a daughter, I could not be more proud of all he has accomplished in his life. As I have grown up I realize more and more just how lucky I am that he is my daddy. He has and will always love my sisters and I no matter what we do. He is the greatest!!!

I feel that my dad is an all american dad for many reasons and feel he is deserving because he has been through a lot in his life. An amazing father who I feel is like a cat with nine lives. He has faced death many times but still comes back stronger than ever. He always worries about others even while sick. Would love to grant him one of his wishes by going to a sporting event. He has been so sick but he continually gets back on his feet to stand as strong as he can. To me that is what an all American dad is someone who wont quit and keeps fighting to stay alive. I would love to take him just to see his eyes light up knowing he is able to go to a sporting event. Thank you!!

My dad, is the most hard working man I have ever known. He has always supported his family in every way possible. He is a veteran left with scars that seem to be coming out from deep inside as the older he gets. He still doesn't let that get him down. He had to retire early but he still makes sure everything a Dad does gets done. Being a disabled child he still treats me as if I was still a baby, sometimes even too good. Thank you very much.

My Dad is the piture of a all around GREAT Man, Husband, Dad, and Grandfather. He was 1 of 7 boys. He has been married to my Mom for over 50 years. He has 4 children. Buried one son and 2 son in-laws. Helped his children through death, marriage, divorce and child rearing. He has survived working in the coal mines of Virgina, 3 separate forms of cancer and still gets up with a smile on his face and determination in his heart. He is the man that I first loved. I have danced on top of his shoes, sat on his lap as I have cried with fear and heartache, and he is the one that is there first when things go wrong in my life. He is the picture of strength and love. He is my Dad!

My husband and the daddy of our children is deserving of consideration for this contest. He is an Active Duty soldier of the last sixteen years and has faced many deployments in combat zones. It has never been easy for him to go away but he chokes back his tears to deploy and continue with his missions because of his love for his family and his desire to keep us and our country safe. He is a selfless person who spends his extra time working with our son in karate and soccer. Our family enjoys church together and my husband strives to make sure he is a positive role model for our children. He is a rock in our lives and we love him more than anything. When there is sadness in our home, his hugs and strong arms make the pain easier to bear. He is truly what it should mean to be the "Great American Dad"!

My husband died 14 years ago today when our son was 3yrs old. I cannot thank my own father for helping me raise my son who is now 17. My dad gave his love , time and attention so graciously that there is no way I could ever thank him enough for being there for me. Not only was he a wonderful influence to my son he also was there for me during such difficult moments when only a daddy's love could help. My dad is still at 78 yrs old there for my son and I and nothing makes him happier than helping us.

Before I can even begin this essay, I am already in tears. My grandfather has been so good to me for 20 long years. Although he is not my biological father, my grandfather, affectionately known as “Big Daddy,” is my father. He helped raise me the best he could with what little he had, and I will always be forever grateful to him for that. I thank God everyday for my grandfather because it takes a REAL man to raise a child that is not his. It would take a few days, weeks, or even months for me to express my gratitude and love for my grandfather, as well as testify to all he has done for me. My grandfather, excuse me, my Father is a blessing. He has been by my side every single day of my life, encouraging me to keep on my rightful path. Throughout everything I’ve been through in my life, and trust me, I have been through a lot, my grandfather has prayed with me, cried with me, failed with me, and stood back up with me. I am so thankful for my Father. He is the best.

My dad is so thoughtful and caring. Several years ago, he traveled to one of our marching band shows just two days after having gall bladder surgery. He was in so much pain, but he was determined he wasn't going to miss a performance. When my mother had surgery several years ago, we were distraught to find that she had cancer. He cried as they rolled her away, and he said "daddy's shouldn't act like this". He didn't realize that we know daddy's have feelings too and they hurt just like we do:( When my son was hospitalized a few years back, he didn't hesitate to drive 60+ miles each day and spend 8-10 hours in a room with me and my son, just to keep us company. He has always given me more than I deserve, and even at 32, there isn't a time I don't go home and sit in my daddy's lap and give him a hug and a kiss. There is more love and compassion in his pinkie finger than most men possess in their entire lives. He is what a daddy should be!!!

My Dad is not only my Dad, but he loves being a Dad to all my friends. Anytime I have friends over he goes out of his way to do special things for us. Like, in our pool, he will put the volleyball net up, just because we play volleyball in school. When I take a friend on vacation, he always pays their way, when he doesn't have too. Also, he helps our elderly neighbors with cutting their grass, fixing electric problems and one particularly neighbor is very sick, so sometimes in the middle of night he gets a call from the neighbors wife that he has fallen out of bed and my Dad goes and helps her with him. He takes the offering in our church, he does the games at vacation Bible School. Any he is so wonderful to my Mother. I would like to vote him for the best Dad ever!!

My Dad has been both Dad and Mom since I was 12 when my Mom passed away. He has always been there for me in whatever capacity I needed him and never walked away from the sticky situations. We now live 1500 miles apart but I know if I needed anything I could pick up the phone and he would be there in a heartbeat. I am truly blessed to have such a loving, caring, and amazing person to call my Dad. He will forever be my hero.

I think my daddy is the greatest because he never puts himself first. he is always thinking of the other person rather than himself. My dad has always been there for me during the fun times and the sad times. He alsways knows the right words to say when I am sad. He took me shopping ever year for my dress to my junior high and high school dances. Many long hours of shopping, but he never said a word. My dad has never gone a day without telling me he loves me. If he hasnt seen me for the whole day, then he will call me to make sure he tells me. I cannot imagine what my life would have been like without my daddy. He has sacraficed so much just to make sure my mom, my brother and my sister have everything we need. He is the most awesome daddy in the world, and he's all mine. I Love You Daddy.

What a Great American Dad I have! He is loving , patient, kind and unselfish!! He loves his family and kids and always puts them first no matter what! Just recently he burried our pet guinea pig, in the back yard in the pouring rain with the kids in tears saying wait dad one more kiss and one more prayer before we cover him!! Its times like this you don't realize what a wonderful Dad you have!! Thanks DAD we love you!!

My dad works so many hours to provide for our family. He still found time to coach my baseball, soccer and football team. As well as coach my little sister's soccer team. Besides those typical things you expect from a dad he coached my mom during her fight with cancer. He would drive her to the cancer center for treatments, clean her up if she got too sick, shaved his head when she lost her hair and made her laugh when she wanted to cry. It has been a year since my mom's last chemo treatment and a little less than that since her last radiation. She cried when she had her eye brows waxed because she was happy hair was growing again. My mom did the fighting but my dad coached her through it.

My Dad is the greatest period! All of my life he has been there for me, no matter what. I am 56 years old and still look to him for advice and support in everything I do. His love for me has colored and enrichend my life and his love has never failed me. I LOVE MY DAD!

My Dad is the best Dad in the world.There are 6 of us kids and he wors hard for us all. Keep up the good work Dad!