American Interiors celebrated Veterans Day by doing what we do best—wholeheartedly supporting the Folds of Honor mission. Since 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded 51,000 educational scholarships to the children and families of fallen or wounded soldiers and first responders. Last week, we helped add to that increasing number of deserving scholarships. Our 3rd Annual Folds of Honor Cup at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando, Florida hosted by Ken and Melissa Griffey was filled with veteran heroes, selfless donors, and supportive celebrities.

Thursday evening brought an emotional program where we heard from Folds of Honor Founder, Lt Col Dan Rooney, and Folds of Honor Scholarship Recipient, Laura Bella Torian. As a group, we honored the 30 American military servicemen that tragically lost their lives due to the 2011 Extortion 17 incident in Afghanistan. Extortion 17 remains the greatest single loss of life to Naval Special Warfare since the Afghan War started in 2001.

While Folds of Honor events bring attention to upsetting tragedies and lives lost, they also ensue celebration of the success and continued work of Folds of Honor and the children and families that have benefitted from the non-profit organization. After the program, the crowd enjoyed a lively concert by singer-songwriter Kelley James and Charles Kelley, lead singer of award-winning country music band, Lady A. By the end of the night, the entire room was dancing as Lt Col Dan Rooney took the stage with fellow veterans to close the evening with a special cover of Sweet Caroline.

The next morning began with traditional opening ceremonies featuring the University of Central Florida Color Guard, Lake Nona Choir, City of Mount Dora Pipes and Drums, and the Legacy Expeditions Triple 7 Flight Team. Afterwards, veterans and donors took to the green. Foursome teams were supplemented by the addition of a celebrity, including but not limited to baseball hall of famer, Ken Griffey, Jr.; platinum-selling artist, Kid Rock; NSYNC boy band member, Joey Fatone; and many more.

We will never get over this feeling. Our team is heading back to the office full of hope and honor.