SAV

2025 Recap

21st Annual Salute to America’s Veterans – A Triumph of Patriotism and Honor

On November 5, 2025, The Rotary Club of Dallas proudly hosted the 21st Annual Salute to America’s Veterans, a heartfelt tribute honoring the brave men and women who have defended our nation's freedoms. Held beneath the historic aircraft displays at the Frontiers of Flight Museum, the event brought together veterans, active-duty service members, Rotarians, and community leaders in a powerful expression of gratitude, patriotism, and unity.

A highlight of the afternoon was an insightful and timely presentation by David J. Kramer, Executive Director of the George W. Bush Institute and Vice President of the George W. Bush Presidential Center. Mr. Kramer shared a compelling perspective on the war in Ukraine and America's role in supporting democracy and global security, providing attendees with meaningful context on today's international challenges.

The program opened with a warm welcome from longtime emcee Jody Dean, followed by a spirited performance by the American Bombshells. As modern ambassadors of gratitude inspired by the Andrews Sisters, they delivered a patriotic musical tribute featuring favorites such as God Bless the USA, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, and The Star-Spangled Banner. Their performance celebrated the enduring spirit of America while recognizing the 250th anniversaries of the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps.

Cadets from Faith Family Academy proudly presented the colors, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and offered the invocation with precision and dignity. Serving as greeters throughout the event, they set a tone of respect and reverence that resonated among the 359 attendees, many of whom were American heroes themselves.

World War II veteran and esteemed Rotarian Linus Wright—former U.S. Under Secretary of Education and Past District 5810 Governor—had the honor of introducing Mr. Kramer and presenting him with the Perot Patriot Leadership Award. Named in recognition of Ross Perot's longstanding commitment to veterans and military service members, the award celebrates exceptional leadership and dedication to those who serve our nation.

The 2025 Salute to America's Veterans raised more than $110,000 through sponsorships, ticket sales, and silent auction proceeds, reflecting the community's deep commitment to honoring military service. Of the event's 46 sponsors, 61% were Rotarians, demonstrating the Rotary Club of Dallas' unwavering support for veterans and active-duty personnel. The Perot Family Foundation further strengthened this legacy by committing to continue its sponsorship through 2027 with annual contributions of $25,000.

Proceeds from the event benefited USO DFW and the George W. Bush Institute's Veterans and Military Families Initiative, with $50,000 distributed in 2025 alone. Since its inception, the Salute has generated significant support for organizations serving veterans and military families, standing as a lasting symbol of Texas-sized gratitude and American unity.

Since 2005, the Salute to America's Veterans has honored more than 2,700 veterans in person and welcomed 8,686 attendees, reflecting the enduring strength of community support and shared patriotism. Each year, approximately 400 veterans, active-duty service members, Rotarians, and community members gather to celebrate those who have answered the call to serve.

The success of this event is made possible through the dedication of countless volunteers and committee members, including Charles Ashcraft, David Cross, Bryan Market, Josh Theodore, Rosanna Sandlin, April Koestner, Hubert Zajicek, Mary Rock, Jim Frankiewicz, Charles Dowden, Cyndi Janssen, Chris Castle (Club President), and many others. Their commitment behind the scenes exemplifies the very values the Salute seeks to honor: service, duty, honor, and love of country.

The Rotary Club of Dallas extends its deepest gratitude to all who have served and continue to serve in our nation's military. God bless the men and women of our Armed Forces, veterans, and their families.