Honoring Heroes at the New York Stock Exchange: A Moment of Patriotism, Legacy, and Gratitude
Last week, I had the profound honor of attending a truly historic event at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), where more than 15 Medal of Honor Recipients gathered to ring the Closing Bell. As the founder of Flags of Valor, a company built on patriotism and service, this moment was deeply personal and humbling. It was not only an opportunity to witness history but also to contribute something tangible—a handcrafted custom American flag that was presented to the CEO of the NYSE and signed by these incredible heroes.
A Flag of Honor
Creating this flag was a privilege beyond words. Every flag we make at Flags of Valor carries meaning, but this one held a special significance. It was not just a symbol of American values—it was a tribute to those who have embodied the highest ideals of courage, sacrifice, and integrity. Having the Medal of Honor Recipients sign this flag turned it into a living testament of their legacy, a piece of American history that will stand as a reminder of their heroism for generations to come.
The Medal of Honor represents the pinnacle of bravery, awarded only to those who have gone above and beyond in service to our country. To see these men—who have risked everything for our freedom—gather in such a historic setting was a deeply moving experience. Their presence at the NYSE was a powerful reminder that the principles they fought for—duty, honor, and country—extend far beyond the battlefield and into every aspect of our society, including our economy and institutions.
The Significance of the NYSE’s Commitment to Veterans
The New York Stock Exchange has long demonstrated its dedication to honoring veterans and service members. Over its 230-year history, the NYSE has not only supported veteran-owned businesses but has also ensured that the legacy of service and sacrifice remains central to its culture. This was evident in their recognition with the Circle of Honor Award, which acknowledges their unwavering commitment to Medal of Honor Recipients and their mission to inspire and educate future generations.
The Closing Bell ceremony wasn’t just about marking the end of a trading day—it was a national moment of reflection, unity, and gratitude. The presence of the Medal of Honor Recipients underscored the importance of reinvigorating civic responsibility and patriotism in our communities. Their call to action was clear: We must all do our part to strengthen the foundation of this nation by honoring our service members, promoting citizenship, and leading by example.
A Personal Reflection
As a veteran and business owner, standing among these giants of American history was a moment I will never forget. It reminded me why I started Flags of Valor in the first place—to create meaningful, handcrafted symbols of patriotism that honor those who have served. Seeing the flag we built, signed by these heroic men, reinforced the importance of our mission.
Looking Ahead
This event marked the beginning of a series of activities leading up to National Medal of Honor Day on March 25, including the opening of the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, and nationwide ceremonies honoring these heroes. As these events unfold, let’s all take a moment to reflect on what it means to serve, to sacrifice, and to contribute to something greater than ourselves.
At Flags of Valor, we remain committed to honoring those who serve through our craftsmanship and our mission. Whether through custom American-made products, supporting veteran organizations, or simply sharing the stories of our nation’s heroes, we will continue to do our part.
To the Medal of Honor Recipients—thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your unwavering dedication to this great country. It was an honor to stand among you and to create something that carries your legacy forward.
