Joe Cook is an Iraqi War veteran. He starred in the viral political ad supporting Republican presidential nominee John McCain titled "Dear Mr. Obama." While serving on the field, Cook was injured by a roadside bomb, which led to the amputation of his left leg.

In the political ad "Dear Mr. Obama," Cook is shown from the waist up, talking about the sacrifice that soldiers have made for their country. At the climax of the video, Cook is seen turning away from the camera, allowing viewers to see his prosthetic limb as he walks away.