MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Early in 2006 I was watching a cable news program. On this particular day they interviewed a young woman who had lost her husband in Iraq. The small town she lived in had banded together to buy her a home. The scene was extremely emotional, not only for this young woman and her small children who were crying and overwhelmed with gratitude, but also for me. As I watched this short little news clip, I found tears flowing uncontrollably down my face as I sobbed.

I am sure, however, that this is a rare episode. I would guess that for 99% of the widows with families, the loss of their mate means the loss of, if not all, than a major part of the income that the family depends on to survive. Strain would soon follow as the mate left behind tries to keep their family with a roof over their heads and food on the table; to say nothing about explaining to their children why their father or mother is never going to come home again. For those living in government quarters, they would have to leave—to go where? For those that gave all that they could give, it seemed like an ignominious way for our country to tell them that they were no longer relevant.

I am a retired Navy “Mustang,” having joined the service at the age of 17 as a Seabee and worked my way up to the rank of Lt. Commander. I have a special feeling for our brave warriors. Now retired, I decided that my small company, and perhaps others that wanted to make a contribution, could combine their efforts to make a difference in these brave families lives. Thus was born, FallenWarriors.org.

I am proud to be a part of this opportunity to give something so meaningful back. I want to express my appreciation for your joining me in this effort.

Ronald F. Way<
Founder and CEO of Fallenwarriors.org