The Folded Flag Foundation's 2025 Washington, D.C. Gala Raises over $900,000 for Gold Star Families

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Folded Flag Foundation hosted its annual Salute to Service Gala on Thursday, September 18, at The Willard InterContinental in Washington, D.C, raising over $900,000 to provide educational scholarships to the families of America's fallen service members. This is the first year that the event took place in our Nation's Capital, marking an exciting milestone for the Foundation. Over the past 11 years, The Folded Flag Foundation has awarded nearly $28 million in scholarships to over 5,600 recipients, continuing its unwavering support for Gold Star families.

The gala featured a keynote address from Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis, who reflected on the value of service, the resilience of military families, and the lasting responsibility to honor America's fallen heroes. Another highlight of the evening was Kyle Carpenter, the youngest living Medal of Honor recipient and a recipient of the Purple Heart. Carpenter shared his life story, inspiring the audience with his sacrifice and strength in the face of overwhelming adversity. 

The evening ended with a testimonial from Gold Star scholarship recipient, Austin English, son of the late U.S. Army Captain Shawn L. English. Austin shared how the Foundation's support has profoundly shaped both his educational journey and personal development.

Kim Frank, the President of The Folded Flag Foundation, shared, "Hosting the Salute to Service Gala in Washington, D.C., for the first time was a great way to introduce The Folded Flag Foundation to so many new people. The support was tremendous, and we are grateful to everyone who attended and reinforced the importance of helping our Gold Star families."

Founded in 2014 by businessman and NHL team owner Bill Foley, The Folded Flag Foundation has become a beacon of hope for the families of fallen U.S. military personnel. For the 2025-26 academic year, the foundation has already awarded over $5 million in scholarships to deserving students.

About The Folded Flag Foundation

The Folded Flag Foundation is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization committed to honoring the legacy of our fallen heroes by helping their families with financial support for education. The Folded Flag Foundation proudly gives 100 percent of ALL donations to Gold Star family scholarships. Corporate sponsors ServiceLink, Fidelity National Financial (FNF), Dun & Bradstreet, Fidelity National Investment Services (FIS), and Cannae Holdings underwrite all administrative costs. For more information on The Folded Flag Foundation, including how to make a donation to support its cause, please visit www.FoldedFlagFoundation.org.

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SOURCE The Folded Flag Foundation, Inc.