Veterans Day 2025
Photos credit: AFRH
The Old Soldiers Home Foundation was once again honored to join the residents and staff of the Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) Washington, D.C. in celebrating Veterans Day — a cherished tradition that embodies gratitude, remembrance, and pride in service.
Although this year’s program unfolded under quieter skies — with no helicopter landing or jet flyover due to the ongoing federal government shutdown — the spirit of the day was undiminished. The gathering on the Home’s historic campus highlighted the deeper meaning of the holiday: that the heart of service lies not in ceremony, but in the people who continue to inspire it.
As in years past, the morning began with coffee and pastries provided by Dog Tag Bakery, whose fellowship program empowers veterans to transition successfully to civilian life. We were glad to be joined by Brigadier General Leland D. Blanchard II, Acting Commander of the D.C. National Guard, along with members of his command staff who interacted with residents and staff throughout the morning.
The ceremony in the Hall of Honors, led by AFRH-Washington Ombudsman and retired Navy Command Master Chief Dion Dupree, featured remarks from AFRH-Washington Administrator Rob McAndrews and a keynote delivered by Sergeant Major Kristie L. Brady, U.S. Army, Deputy Chief of Staff G-6 Senior Enlisted Advisor.
Following the program, residents gathered in the community center for a luncheon provided by Mission BBQ, Nick’s Pizza, and Pizza di Joey, all veteran-owned small businesses that have become repeat partners in our annual celebration.
The Old Soldiers Home Foundation extends its deepest thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, and the AFRH staff who make this tradition possible. Each act of generosity — from a warm meal to a word of thanks — sustains the Home’s mission to care for those who have borne the battle.
To all who served: we honor you today, and every day.
Although the event was primarily about bringing veterans and supporters together for a day of fun, we are enormously thankful to the sponsors and donors who gave to make this a successful event and sustain our programs improving quality of life for AFRH residents, with $16,000 raised.
Recorded Future, a MasterCard company
Eisiminger Family Foundation
”The Misfits”
Corgan
Halcyon.ai
Allied Forces Foundation
Basilone Chapter/Warfighters Motorcycle Club
Washington Nationals
Monumental Sports
International Spy Museum
We extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who provided sweat equity to make the National Veterans Day Celebration 2025 happen, in particular: Lauren Mitchell, Travis Smith, Hilary Rosado, Paul Armbruster, Sheldon Shorthouse, Dion Dupree, and Marine Robbins.