This week’s Feel-Good Friday pays tribute to our armed service members and first responders, and those who seek to honor their service. Former President and GOP nominee Donald Trump will be returning to Butler, PA, for a rally in honor of fallen firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was murdered by an assassin’s bullet at the July 13 Trump rally, at which the former president was also injured. That’s ballsy of Trump, but also a powerful testament to his resilience, and a touching tribute to a man who gave to his community and gave his life for his family.
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“Folds of Honor” is an organization that seeks to honor those who lay down their lives as well. The name is a hat tip to the folded flag presented to the family at the funeral of their loved one who served. Founded in 2007 by Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, its mission statement of “Honor Their Sacrifice. Educate Their Legacy,” is fulfilled through helping the spouses and children of armed service members who have been disabled or have died in combat. The money that Folds of Honor raises goes directly into scholarships and educational programs. The non-profit offers scholarships of up to $5,000 that are awarded based on the “unmet need” of the applicant. The recipient can use these scholarships to help pay for tuition costs, textbooks, room and board, tutoring, and any other educational expenses.
The vision for Folds of Honor was born on Rooney’s flight home from his second tour of duty in Iraq. Even though the plane’s captain requested that everyone remain seated while the remains of a fallen warrior and his family were allowed a solemn exit, Rooney said that half the seats were empty because the other passengers disregarded the request. Rooney was determined to come up with a way to pay tribute to those who had given their lives in the service of their country.
The flight was carrying the remains of Cpl. Brock Bucklin. As the plane landed, Rooney watched as Bucklin’s twin brother accompanied the flag-draped casket, walking the fallen serviceman to his heartbroken family. Bucklin’s young son, Jacob, was among them.
In these wrenching moments, the roots of the nonprofit Rooney would form took hold.
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The Folds of Honor website says, “On our watch, those who protect our freedoms and our families will know they are not forgotten,” and through various means, their mission remains strong. Since 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded more than 51,000 educational scholarships totaling more than $240 million. All to the spouses and children of fallen and/or disabled service members. In 2022, they expanded their scholarships to families of first responders.
Folds of Honor has a unique and multi-pronged fundraising strategy. Through activities within the Folds of Honors chapters nationwide, through individual and group donations, and through partnerships with the PGA and USGA, and with corporate and boutique retailers. Part of the proceeds from the sales of merchandise go directly to the charity. One of the latest partnerships is with Imperial Brands, which has launched a Imperial x Folds of Honor collection; it features eight different cap styles, a T-shirt, and a crewneck sweatshirt, bearing the Folds of Honor folded flag logo.
The Folds of Honor Facebook page weaves the stories of the individuals, the students, and the partners who come together to make a difference in the lives of those who serve–and those who gave all.
WATCH:
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There’s even a documentary about the organization that can be viewed or purchased on Amazon! To find a way you can participate or partner with the mission of Folds of Honor, visit the FoldsofHonor.org website.