Educating the public and the next generation historic patriotic days preserves national identity, honors sacrifice and secures democratic freedoms for the future. It keeps critical historical facts accurate across generations, explains the high cost of daily civil liberties, remembers service members who died for the country (Memorial Day) and expresses gratitude to those who served and survived (Veterans Day), reaffirms unity and strength in the face of tragedy (9/11), unifies diverse populations with America’s common foundational principles, develops critical thinking in our youth who analyze how past conflicts shape modern global politics and explore the impact of domestic policies on world peace, and reminds us that we are the free because of the brave.
The Veterans Foundation’s mission includes the goal to educate. And we heartedly are aware that service is not limited to the individual wearing the uniform. It includes the spouse left behind when a uniformed service member is on deployment, the child in a household vacant the parent in uniform, the elderly parents faring for themselves while their son or daughter is off on a mission, and in cases of tragedy, the family members who recall the life of a loved one whose service was his/her last act of devotion to our country.
The Veterans Foundation reminds our public of the sacrifices borne by those who serve through our events surrounding our community events.
“I Think We Are In a Dangerous Time:” General H.R. McMaster addresses significant donors, VIPs and dignitaries at the Special Reception at The Flame of Liberty Memorial, Photo Credit: T Avelar
General Raymond A. Thomas III who previously served as the 11th Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. Prior to assuming command of USSOCOM, Gen. Thomas served as Commander, Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), Fort Bragg, N.C., informs special guests on a former assignment – commanding special operations across all branches of the military.
President General Kent Hillhouse, Former Mayor Steve Leonardis, Board Advisor Secretary Francis J. Harvey, 19th Secretary of the US Army celebrate a “Mission Accomplished” at the Flame of Liberty Memorial unveiling, June 15, 2019.
A Dedication Gives Spark to a World Class Memorial–The Flame of Liberty – The Flame of Liberty Memorial Dedication Ceremony was attended by dignitaries, government officials, veterans, parents of local 9/11, military officers, and over 1500 patriotic citizens who were excited to see the memorial come to life. Congresswoman Anna Eshoo commented that now this ground is considered a “sacred place.”
U.S. Army Ranger Communications Specialist relays the story of transitioning to civilian life at home following 5 tours in the Middle East.
Raymond J Fisher Middle School Winners Along with Veterans Memorial & Support Foundation Board Members
L to R: Student Joseph Chadwick, Student Jake Stimson, Veteran MG Kent Hillhouse, Student Gwendolyn Erdosh,
Foundation Founder Mike Frangadakis, Student Aida Raza, Veteran Dr. Clyde Horn
Hillbrook School students hear the first-hand experiences of Captain Doug Beck in Iraq & Afghanistan. Major General Kent Hillhouse U.S. Army (ret.) waits in the wings to share the story of The Flame of Liberty Memorial. [Credit: John Lochner]
The Veterans Foundation honors the survivors, victims and two local heroes – Mark Bingham and Todd Beamer, at its 9/11 Tribute. Audience members hear the stories of the first responders who answered the call on one of the most tragic days in recent American history.
The life of service. Veterans tell their story of military service at a Veterans Day reception held for community veterans. Left: Submariner Mark Buxton, Center: GEN Kent Hillhouse US Army (ret.), Right: Rob Stephenson, US Marine Corps
GEN Kent Hillhouse US Army (ret.) acknowledges the service of America’s Veterans on Veterans Day.
LT Walker Pearce-Percy recognizes the service members of America’s Greatest Generation, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War at a Memorial Day service at the Terraces Senior Living.
GEN Kent Hillhouse US Army (ret) addresses an audience of 400 on Memorial Day.
Mayor Rob Moore, Foundation Board Member and GEN Kent Hillhouse were involved in collaborate on Memorial Day remarks.
