Jerrard E. Kuipers

## History

**Jerrard Ebben Kuipers** was born on September, 18th, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York, America, and grew up in a working-class neighborhood in Allway. As the youngest of five siblings, he learned to toughen up quickly to avoid being picked on by his older brothers. Despite being a troublemaker, getting into fights and skipping school, Jerrard had a natural charm and charisma that made him popular with his peers. After graduating, he struggled to find his footing and worked various odd jobs, falling in with a rough crowd and getting into more trouble. However, it wasn't until he was drafted into the military for WWII that Jerrard found purpose and direction. While initially causing problems and getting into fights with fellow soldiers, Jerrard quickly learned the importance of teamwork and discipline. His natural leadership skills and charisma also made him a popular figure within his unit, and he formed a close bond with fellow soldier Jack despite their occasional conflicts.

## Appearances

Jerrard, clad in his World War II uniform, stands tall and resolute. His brown eyes, filled with determination, showcase a sense of unwavering focus. His ginger sandy hair, neatly trimmed and parted to the side, peeks out from underneath his military cap, which he proudly wears alongside his beanie. The uniform, a symbol of his dedication to duty, fits him impeccably. The olive green fabric of his jacket and trousers is adorned with various patches and insignias, reflecting his rank and service. The jacket is buttoned up, emphasizing his lean physique and squared shoulders, while also providing protection from the elements. Beneath the jacket, Jerrard dons a crisp white shirt and a tie, meticulously knotted at the collar. His beanie, an unconventional addition to the uniform, is securely placed on his head, serving as a personal touch and a reminder of his individuality amidst the regimented military attire. Completing his ensemble are polished leather boots, laced up tightly, giving him a steady and grounded presence. Jerrard carries himself with an air of confidence and purpose, as he stands ready to fulfill his duty on the battlefield. Despite the seriousness of his uniform, Jerrard's character shines through. His brown eyes exude warmth and empathy, contrasting with the harshness of war. His sandy hair, peeking out from beneath his cap and beanie, adds a touch of familiarity and approachability, reminding others that beneath the soldier lies a person with hopes, dreams, and a desire for peace.

## Personality

First and foremost, Jerrard is known for his natural charisma and leadership abilities. He effortlessly inspires those around him and assumes the role of a mentor and guide. His strong presence and astute insights make him a trusted figure among his friends and comrades. Jerrard is also characterized by his playful nature and sense of humor. He often teases his friends, like Jack, in a light-hearted manner. His playful banter adds a sense of levity and camaraderie to their relationships, reinforcing their bonds. However, Jerrard is not without his flaws. At the beginning, he exhibits racist attitudes towards African-Americans, which causes tension and animosity with characters like Horace L. Gorman Collin. This flaw highlights his initial narrow-mindedness and prejudices, but also serves as a catalyst for growth and transformation. Throughout the story, Jerrard undergoes a significant character arc, as he confronts his biases and actively works towards unlearning them. This demonstrates his capacity for self-reflection and growth, showcasing a willingness to challenge his own beliefs and evolve as a person. Jerrard's dedication to his role within D-Company and his sense of duty in military missions further accentuate his personality. He takes his responsibilities seriously and understands the importance of collaboration and putting aside personal opinions for the greater good. Overall, Jerrard's personality can be described as charismatic, playful, and dedicated. His journey of personal growth and transformation highlights his capacity for empathy, understanding, and a willingness to confront his own shortcomings. Through his interactions and relationships with others, Jerrard's personality shines, leaving a lasting impact on those around him.

Certainly! Here is a list of Jerrard's personality traits:

1. Serious: Jerrard is known for his serious demeanor, especially during war times.

2. Dedicated: He is committed to his role in D-Company and takes his responsibilities seriously.

3. Charismatic: Jerrard possesses natural charisma, which allows him to lead and inspire others.

4. Compassionate: Despite his seriousness, Jerrard has a compassionate and empathetic side, particularly towards his mentee, Jonah.

5. Wise: Jerrard's life experiences have shaped him into a wise and insightful individual, offering valuable advice and guidance to those around him.

6. Insightful: He has the ability to listen, understand, and empathize with others, allowing him to maintain healthy relationships and support those in need.

7. Open-minded: Jerrard is willing to put aside his own opinions and clash with others when necessary, showing his willingness to consider different perspectives.

8. Romantic: He plays a role in Jonah's romantic life, showcasing his understanding of love and relationships and providing advice and support.

9. Mentor: Jerrard acts as a mentor figure to Jonah, guiding him through various challenges and helping him grow.

10. Leader: With his charisma and leadership skills, Jerrard takes charge and guides others effectively.

These traits collectively define Jerrard's complex and multi-dimensional personality.

## Relationships

### Sergeant Trace Washington

Jerrard's relationship with Trace is intricate and multifaceted. As a fellow member of D-Company, with Trace as the leader, Jerrard is willing to set aside his own opinions and confront Trace when necessary. Over time, Jerrard has witnessed Trace's growth and transformation, providing valuable insights into his leadership abilities within the D-Company. Initially, Jerrard had reservations about Trace's self-centered behavior and aggressive tendencies. However, as their bond deepened, Jerrard began to understand the underlying motivations behind Trace's actions. Jerrard serves as a stabilizing force for Trace, offering a much-needed counterbalance to his impulsive nature. He challenges Trace's ego and encourages him to consider the feelings and perspectives of others. Jerrard's guidance and mentorship play a crucial role in helping Trace develop empathy and self-awareness. Despite Trace's fixation on Jonah, Jerrard remains fiercely loyal to his friend. Jerrard recognizes that Trace's animosity towards Jonah stems from deeper issues and strives to help him uncover the root causes. With patience and understanding, Jerrard assists Trace in confronting his insecurities and fears. Over time, Jerrard's unwavering support and friendship have a profound impact on Trace. As Trace begins to value Jerrard's genuine concern and care, he gradually sheds his self-centered nature and becomes more considerate of others, even while remaining loyal and respected as the leader of the D-Company. Jerrard's dedication to Trace and the other members of the D-Company is evident, despite the challenges posed by Trace's behavior and his animosity towards Jonah. Jerrard's loyalty to Trace is further reinforced by the fact that he is the second in command for combat situations. Jerrard's presence in Trace's life serves as a catalyst for personal growth and transformation. Their relationship is not without difficulties, as Jerrard occasionally clashes with Trace's stubbornness and resistance to change. Nevertheless, their bond withstands these tests, and Jerrard's unwavering belief in Trace's potential for growth and redemption remains steadfast.

### Jack Terrence

Jack and Jerrard have been friends since their days in Normandy, forging a deep and enduring bond that has withstood the test of time. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, their friendship remains strong. Jerrard, in his playful manner, often teases Jack about his Roman Catholic beliefs and Sicilian ancestry, sometimes mistakenly assuming that he is Italian due to his Mediterranean appearance. However, Jack's Sicilian heritage holds a significance beyond being merely Italian, granting him a unique identity that sets him apart. Although Jerrard's teasing may occasionally irritate Jack, it never threatens the unbreakable connection they share. However, not all aspects of their friendship are without contention. Jack finds himself deeply troubled by Jerrard's racist attitudes towards African-Americans, specifically towards individuals like Horace L. Gorman Collin and Otis Angelo Miller. Jerrard's prejudiced behavior shocks and appalls Jack, who vehemently disapproves of it. Yet, even in the face of these profound disagreements, their friendship perseveres. One of the key reasons for their unwavering bond lies in Jerrard's innate charisma. His natural magnetism allows him to effortlessly lead and inspire those around him, including Jack. Jerrard's astute insights and guidance have a profound and positive influence on Jack's life. Jack values Jerrard's wisdom, particularly when it comes to following Trace's orders, and views him as a trusted mentor and confidant. Through Jerrard's open-mindedness and willingness to listen, their friendship grows stronger, despite their differences. Moreover, Jerrard's commitment to his role within D-Company and his sense of duty in military missions further solidify their bond. He takes his responsibilities seriously, understanding the importance of putting aside personal opinions to collaborate effectively with others, especially when it comes to supporting Jack in matters related to his religious beliefs and racial issues. In conclusion, Jack and Jerrard's friendship is a testament to the power of respect, understanding, and loyalty. Despite their divergent backgrounds and occasional disagreements, their unwavering support for one another prevails. They celebrate each other's unique identities and strengths, learning from their differences and growing together as individuals. Through their enduring camaraderie, they navigate the complexities of life, both on and off the battlefield, proving that true friendship can transcend any obstacle.

### Jonah De la Uziel

Jerrard and Jonah shared a unique bond that was formed during their time in the war. Initially, Jerrard was serious and dedicated to his duties, while Jonah was naive and patriotic towards his fellow soldiers in D-Company, particularly towards Jerrard, who served as the second-in-command under Trace, the leader of D-Company. Despite their age difference and diverse backgrounds, Jerrard and Jonah developed a deep connection rooted in mutual respect and friendship. Jerrard, with his natural charisma and leadership abilities, took Jonah under his wing, assuming the role of a mentor and guide. Recognizing Jonah's potential, Jerrard encouraged him to embrace his strengths and pursue his dreams. Drawing from his own life experiences, both in and out of the war, Jerrard provided valuable advice and guidance to help Jonah overcome challenges and make important decisions. Their relationship wasn't devoid of conflicts, as Jerrard and Jonah occasionally held differing opinions and clashed on certain matters. However, these disagreements never undermined their bond. Jerrard's willingness to listen, understand, and empathize with Jonah fostered a healthy and open dynamic between them. Jerrard also played a significant part in Jonah's love life. He offered romantic advice and support, urging Jonah to be courageous and follow his heart, even if it meant deviating from his original plans. Jerrard's own encounters with love and rejection gave him the insight and wisdom to guide Jonah through his own romantic endeavors. Overall, Jerrard's relationship with Jonah encompassed mentorship, friendship, and mutual support. Jerrard's role as a guiding figure in Jonah's life profoundly influenced his personal and emotional growth. Their bond was built on trust, respect, and a shared understanding of the significance of pursuing dreams and embracing love, all within the context of the war they faced together.

### Elva Lehmann

Jerrard's relationship with Elva, who was four months pregnant, initially raised some doubts in his mind regarding her connection to the German children. However, as Jerrard spent more time with Elva, he began to feel a stronger bond between them. Elva showed great care for Jerrard, especially when he was injured, and acted as a motherly figure within D-Company. During a town raid by the Deep Ones, Jerrard felt an overwhelming urge to protect Elva and the children, driven by his sense of duty as a Trace and with the support of Horace. They worked together to ensure everyone's safety and to reunite the scattered members of D-Company. Elva's understanding of Jerrard extended to his preferences, such as his favorite drink, hot chocolate, which she made for him during lunch and dinner times. Additionally, Elva played a crucial role in helping Jerrard learn the German language so he could communicate with Romana, a young girl of German or Dutch ancestry who sought refuge. As an inherently optimistic person, Elva's presence and loving sympathy not only allowed Jerrard to form closer bonds with others, particularly Horace and Otis, but also instilled a sense of hope and positivity within the group.

### Horace L. Gorman Collin

Jerrard's character initially harbors racist attitudes towards African-Americans, leading to a strained relationship with Horace L. Gorman Collin. Their first encounter in France during the war is marked by tension and animosity, as Jerrard mocks and accuses Horace and Otis of stealing their maps. This fuels the divide between them, exacerbating their already strained connection. However, Jerrard's perspective begins to shift when he witnesses the skill and bravery of a young colored supersoldier named Hazel. This challenges his preconceived beliefs and prompts him to question his own prejudices. Motivated to change, Jerrard takes the initiative to engage in meaningful conversations with Horace, genuinely seeking to understand his experiences and perspective. Though initially cautious, Horace gives Jerrard a chance to prove his sincerity. Jerrard's biased comments are rightfully criticized by Horace, but he starts to show respect towards Horace and Otis as fellow members in their shared mission. Through actively working on unlearning his racist beliefs, Jerrard undergoes a transformation. He begins to see Horace as an individual with his own strengths, experiences, and struggles. This evolving perception leads to a deepening friendship marked by empathy, respect, and camaraderie. Jerrard occasionally expresses admiration for Horace and Otis's contributions, further solidifying their bond. Through ongoing conversations and shared experiences, Jerrard and Horace develop mutual understanding and trust. They find common ground and support each other's personal growth journeys. Jerrard becomes an ally to Horace, actively challenging and confronting instances of racism or discrimination they encounter together. Their relationship becomes a testament to the power of change and forgiveness. Jerrard's willingness to confront his own prejudices allows him and Horace to build a strong bond based on respect and equality. Together, they demonstrate that growth and transformation are possible, even when faced with deeply ingrained biases.

### Private Andy Ennis

Joey is close friends with Yami Yugi, and each risks his life to help the other countless times. In Battle City, Joey calls Yami Yugi the "true Duelist", and makes it his goal to become a Duelist worthy of Dueling Yami Yugi. When Joey is unconscious after his Duel with Yami Marik, Yami Yugi only continues participating in the tournament because the Millenium Necklace tells him that's the way to save Joey; Joey exhibits similar selfless behavior in return when he continues to support Yami Yugi after Yami Yugi's corruption led to Yugi's loss, choosing not to blame Yami Yugi for what had transpired and instead urging Yami Yugi to fight to get Yugi back. On the boat ride to the Pharaoh's tomb, Joey tells Tristan and Duke that although he doesn't want to see Yami Yugi go, he supports it because he knows it's best for Yami Yugi. As Yami Yugi leaves, Joey cries, but he encourages the others to let Yami Yugi go to the afterlife, while saying that, "Even in 1000 years, you're still our partner".

## Trivia

* Equipment's arsenal consisted of the M1903 Springfield and a Winchester Model 70. However, Equipment made the selfless decision to part ways with their first Winchester Model 70, choosing to give it to Teo Jakšić.
* Jerrard was only member tells Jonah about his fondness for a Dutch refugee woman named Nama. Unfortunately, she rejects his marriage proposal. However, things take a surprising turn when he meets another Dutch girl named Mia in London shortly before D-Day. Jerrard, who often gives romantic advice to Jonah, also helps the Jonah, willingness to pursue love, even if it means deviating from his original plans.
* Jerrad, born and raised in a Dutch community in New York, came from a Dutch-American background.
	+ Due his Dutch heritage, would often flaunt his ancestry by speaking a little Dutch.
	+ In the episode "Live and Let Live, Part I" Jerrard mentioned that he had learned about Sinterklaas (a Dutch holiday figure) since he was a young child.
	+ Jerrard mentioned his Dutch father on four occasions, emphasizing his strong connection to his Dutch heritage:
		- Jerrard shared that his father was a Dutch immigrant who came to the United States in the 1910s, seeking refuge during World War I.
		- Jerrard's father had a talent for woodworking, showcasing his craftsmanship and skill in this trade.
		- Despite having Dutch ancestry from both parents, Jerrard often found himself mistakenly identified as Irish. This confusion arose from people making assumptions based on his ginger hair and dark eyes, as well as his attitudes towards drinking and his boxing skills, falsely assuming Irish roots instead of Dutch.
		- Jerrard inherited his red hair from his father, who also had a mother with red hair.