#USA #Washington, D.C. #Ron DeSantis #Folded Flag Foundation #Gold Star Families

The Folded Flag Foundation's Annual Gala

On September 18, 2025, The Folded Flag Foundation celebrated its annual Salute to Service Gala at The Willard InterContinental in Washington, D.C. This year's event marked a significant milestone as it was the first time the gala was held in the nation's capital. The night was a remarkable success, raising over $900,000 to provide educational scholarships for the families of fallen service members.

The gala gathered numerous supporters and honored guests, uniting individuals who share a common goal: to support Gold Star families, those who have lost loved ones serving in the U.S. military. Since its inception in 2014, the Foundation has awarded nearly $28 million in scholarships to over 5,600 recipients, underscoring its commitment to education and uplifting the lives of surviving family members.

A Night of Inspiration

The highlight of the evening was a keynote address from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who spoke about the importance of service and the resilient nature of military families. His words resonated deeply with the audience, reminding them of the lasting responsibility we have to honor America's heroes.

Equally inspiring was Kyle Carpenter, the youngest living Medal of Honor recipient. His incredible story of sacrifice and bravery captivated those in attendance. He shared insights about overcoming adversity, motivating attendees with his journey and the spirit of resilience.

The night also featured heartfelt testimonies. Austin English, a scholarship recipient and son of the late U.S. Army Captain Shawn L. English, shared how The Folded Flag Foundation has positively impacted his educational and personal growth. His story bridged the gap between attendees and the mission of the Foundation, demonstrating the tangible effects of their generosity.

Kim Frank, President of The Folded Flag Foundation, expressed immense gratitude for the event's success: "Hosting the Salute to Service Gala in Washington, D.C. for the first time allowed us to reach new supporters. The overwhelming support we received was incredible, and we are thankful to everyone who attended and reinforced the significance of aiding Gold Star families."

Continuing the Mission

Founded by businessman and NHL team owner Bill Foley, The Folded Flag Foundation has established itself as a beacon of hope for the families of U.S. military members who have made the ultimate sacrifice. As of now, for the 2025-2026 academic year, the foundation has awarded over $5 million in scholarships, further illustrating its relentless dedication to helping students reach their educational goals.

The Folded Flag Foundation operates as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, ensuring that every donation goes directly towards scholarship programs. Support from corporate sponsors such as ServiceLink, Fidelity National Financial, and Cannae Holdings covers all administrative expenses, allowing 100% of donations to go towards assisting Gold Star families.

Get Involved

For those looking to support this noble cause, more information about The Folded Flag Foundation, including donation opportunities, is available at FoldedFlagFoundation.org. Stay connected and follow their journey on social media through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

This event underscores the importance of community support in helping those who have given so much—our fallen heroes and their families. By standing together, we can make a significant difference in their lives.