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In a significant gathering at George Washington’s historic estate, some of the nation’s top military leaders, veterans, and civic figures convened to encourage Americans to actively serve their country, not merely by displaying patriotism, but by embodying its core values.
The event took place on June 12 and 13, marking the momentous 250th anniversary of the United States Army alongside Flag Day. This occasion initiated the Military 250 campaign, a nationwide initiative spearheaded by the nonpartisan nonprofit We the Veterans and Military Families, aimed at inspiring 250,000 acts of service across the country.
“This effort goes beyond simply waving the flag,” stated Ellen Gustafson, co-founder of We the Veterans and Military Families, during an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital. “It centers around taking actionable steps to support the ideals our flag represents.”
Gustafson, herself a Navy spouse and granddaughter of military veterans, leads the campaign which also seeks to highlight 250 veteran-led organizations and share 250 stories of sustained service. The kickoff commenced with a formal reception at Mount Vernon’s Smith Theater, featuring notable speakers such as retired Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr., NFL Chief Financial Officer and Army veteran Christine Dorfler, along with former presidential candidate Carly Fiorina. Celebrity chef and Royal Navy veteran Robert Irvine also contributed his voice to the event.
Friday’s programming took place at the George Washington Presidential Library, focusing on themes of civic duty, trusted leadership, and patriotic service. Various speakers included Lt. Gen. Paul Mikolashek, the former Army Inspector General; Green Beret and former NFL player Nate Boyer; U.S. Chamber of Commerce Vice President Hilary Crow; and U.S. Army veteran and comedian Thom Tran.
Gustafson emphasized the symbolic nature of the event’s location. “This is where Washington was called to lead the Continental Army,” she remarked. “He continually answered the call as a general, president, and private citizen. We need that same dedication now more than ever.”
We the Veterans operates as a nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to empowering veterans and military families to lead by example. Previous efforts include Vet the Vote, which successfully recruited over 160,000 veterans and military family members to serve as poll workers during the 2024 elections.
Gustafson articulated what genuine patriotism means in practice. “When the country needed assistance with running elections, our community rose to the occasion. That’s the true essence of patriotism,” she reflected.
Furthermore, Gustafson highlighted that service takes on various forms beyond military enlistment. It can manifest through volunteering in schools, aiding neighbors, mentoring youth, or engaging in local government initiatives.
“Being a patriot is defined by the actions you take,” she expressed. “It’s not about what you post on social media.”
As a mother of three in a military family, Gustafson witnesses the principle of service daily. Her children navigate the challenges of deployments and frequent relocations. She strives to teach them that such sacrifices come with responsibility and pride.
“They understand the significance of the flag,” she noted. “I aspire for them to grow up in a country where more individuals step forward to serve.”
Organizers hope that Flag Day evolves into a new kind of American holiday that signifies not only flag-honoring but also actions inspired by its meaning. Gustafson encapsulated her vision, stating, “It’s time to reintegrate service into our culture. If you love this country, demonstrate it through your actions.”
For those interested in learning more about the Military 250 campaign or those wishing to log their acts of service, further information is available through the nonprofit’s official channels.
In summation, the gathering at Mount Vernon represents a pivotal moment in igniting a renewed spirit of civic engagement and service throughout the nation. Through collective efforts, this campaign aims to inspire a generation to act not only out of respect but in meaningful support of the values that define America.
