Overview and Mission
Overview
Based in Columbus, Ohio, the all-volunteer 501 (c)3 non-profit organization began its sacred mission in 2014. Each year we unveil a new set of 15 fallen service members to be recognized at various events and programs throughout the year. These events allow the families to tell the story of their loved one and inspire those in attendance.
Mission
The Fallen 15 is an organization that’s dedicated to enriching the lives of the veteran and survivor communities. Our programs and events are designed to re-establish the bonds and camaraderie often found in a military environment. These bonds and characteristics, which are key staples to many veteran and family identities, can be lost upon returning home, transitioning out of the service, or when a family’s service member loses their life for their country. It’s our goal at The Fallen 15 to foster a positive environment where veterans, family members, and our “Families of the Fallen” can heal and join together to build these bonds once again.
Our Fallen Service Members
Fallen service members are chosen through nominations by past families and through community suggestions. Each family is asked for approval to recognize their loved one. Only after the family has approved, will a service member be recognized by The Fallen 15.
Families of the Fallen
There are several definitions and perceptions around families who have lost their service members. “Gold Star” originated during World War I and has continued since that time to cover immediate family members of service members who were killed during wartime combat operations. The issuance of the “Gold Star” pin is regulated by the Department of Defense. A “Next of Kin” pin is given to immediate family members whose service member died, while honorably serving in an active duty status in the Armed Forces. There are a few circumstances where a service member may die and the family may not fall under the definition of “Gold Star,” or “Next of Kin.” These families are often referred to as “Military Survivors.”
The Fallen 15 desires to create an all-inclusive environment for families, so they can join in the fellowship of others through healing, camaraderie and support. To accomplish this inclusion, we have moved away from the terms “Gold Star” and “Military Survivor,” to simply say, “Families of the Fallen”.