Playing the bagpipes has always been a fun hobby for Dan. But those talents quickly became his neighborhood’s “victory tune” every night at sunset during the Coronavirus quarantine, giving his hobby more meaning than ever.

Dan, a retired firefighter of 30 years with the Indianapolis Fire Department, has spent his entire life helping his community and lifting the spirits of those around him. The inspiration for his bagpipe playing is rooted in the #SunsetSolidarity movement, which signifies that they have overcome another day of the crisis, and together they will prevail.

When he officially retired from the firehouse, he was eager to spend the majority of his time volunteering, which he does so at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Teachers Treasures, Indiana University Melvin and Simon Cancer Center, and the VA Hospital. Dan has a heart for others. We asked Dan what being a Hoosier means to him, and his answer couldn’t be more helpful during a time like this:

“I was born and raised in Oregon and I moved to Indiana in 1978. Since then, I have done my best to learn what it means to be a Hoosier. I see a willingness in Hoosiers to help other Hoosiers. When you boil it down, being a Hoosier means that you are willing to help those in need.”

This sentiment is something we all need to hear during this time. Social distancing is not only to help you, but to help protect those in your community. The Hoosier Lottery would like to thank Dan for his service to our state, and for assisting in the COVID-19 pandemic with his hopeful and helpful attitude. He is an excellent example of the Hoosier mentality.