Folds of Honor is a non-profit organization founded by Lieutenant Colonel Rooney in 2007. The organization’s mission is to provide educational scholarships to the spouses and children of wounded or killed military service members. The organization’s humble beginnings started above Rooney’s garage, and since then, it has grown to provide over 44,000 academic scholarships, totaling over $200 million.
The inspiration for Folds of Honor came to Rooney during his flight home from his second tour of duty in Iraq. As a fighter pilot in the Oklahoma Air National Guard, he was painfully aware of the realities families face when a loved one in uniform falls or is disabled. As his flight landed, the pilot announced they carried the remains of Corporal Brock Bucklin on board.
Rooney watched Corporal Bucklin’s twin brother walk somberly alongside the flag-covered casket to meet his family on the tarmac. Among them was the deceased Corporal’s young son, Jacob. That night, Rooney committed his life to provide scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service members. Jacob Bucklin became the first Folds of Honor scholarship recipient in 2007.
In 13 years, Folds of Honor has provided over 44,000 academic scholarships totaling over $200 million. Among the students supported, 41 percent are minorities. The organization is committed to providing educational opportunities to as many spouses and children of fallen or disabled service members as possible.
Rooney’s military career began when he earned his USAF pilot’s wings in 2001 after completing Undergraduate Pilot Training at Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls, Texas. Following graduation, Rooney completed Replacement Training Unit for the F-16 at Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix, AZ, and was recognized as a top graduate with the “Spirit of Attack” award. Rooney deployed on his first combat tour of duty in August of 2002.
During this deployment, he flew combat patrol over Iraq to support Operation Northern Watch, enforcing the no-fly zone over Northern Iraq.
In 2005, Rooney deployed to Al Udeid AFB to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a flight leader, he flew night missions and supported ground forces in numerous battles. In 2008, Rooney deployed to Balad AFB on his third and final combat tour. He flew to support ground forces and participated in multiple engagements with enemy forces.
Rooney continues to serve his country and has amassed over 2800 hours of fighter jet flight time. His dedication to his country and the families of fallen and disabled service members is inspiring. Folds of Honor is making a significant impact on the lives of these families, providing educational opportunities that might not be available otherwise.
In 2022, Folds of Honor expanded its mission to include first responders, such as police, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics, who respond to the approximately 240 million calls made to 9-1-1 each year. The organization’s mission is to meet sacrifice with hope, and through its scholarships, Folds of Honor aims to inspire unity and let first responders and their families know that they are not alone.
Folds of Honor relies on the generosity of individuals and corporations to support its mission and welcomes new corporate partners who want to get involved.
To sum it up, Folds of Honor is an extraordinary non-profit organization that has profoundly impacted countless military families’ lives. Their mission to provide educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled military service members is a true testament to their commitment to serving those who have served our country.
The story of Lt. Col. Rooney’s experience and subsequent dedication to founding Folds of Honor is inspiring and reflects his selflessness and leadership. Their accomplishments over the last 13 years have been remarkable, and we are honored to support their work. Folds of Honor is an organization that any company would be proud to be associated with. We hope to join them in their mission to honor and support the families of our nation’s heroes.
