Honoring Our Veterans: Stories of Service, Sacrifice and Support

As we approach Veteran’s Day—Tuesday, November 11th—we take time to recognize the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This day is more than a date on the calendar; it’s a moment to pause, reflect and honor the individuals whose bravery and dedication protect the freedoms we hold dear.

At Fire Mountain Gems and Beads, we are proud to share the stories of veterans in our own creative community and to spotlight meaningful ways we can all give back. From veteran organizations supporting military families to heartfelt personal tributes, we’re reminded that service and support can take many forms—including through creativity.

Jewelry-Making for a Cause: Changing the World One Bead at a Time^®

For many jewelry artists, creativity is more than a personal expression—it’s a tool for healing, remembrance and giving back. Whether you’re making jewelry for donation, teaching others to create, or raising funds through handmade sales, each piece you make has the power to make a difference.

Discover a wide variety of jewelry-making supplies to bring your patriotic visions to life—from star-shaped charms and American flag charms and beads to awareness ribbons and red, white and blue glass and crystal beads.

Here are just a few ways to use your art to support veterans and their families through partnerships with veteran organizations:

• Donate handmade jewelry to charity auctions or fundraising events that benefit veteran organizations.
• Volunteer your time to teach jewelry-making at community centers or veteran shelters—offering comfort, confidence and connection through creativity.
• Design a special collection and donate proceeds to a veterans’ cause, such as housing, mental health support or reintegration programs through trusted veteran organizations.

Learn more about how you can support veterans through jewelry-making in this article, Jewelry-Making for a Cause: Ways to Give Back.

Supporting Veterans Year-Round

---

Many veteran organizations work tirelessly year-round to make a difference in the lives of service members and their families. Here are two nonprofit groups making a powerful impact:

This foundation honors the legacy of firefighter Stephen Siller and supports veterans, Gold Star families and first responders. From building mortgage-free smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans to providing housing support, Tunnel to Towers is one of the veteran organizations making a real difference where it’s needed most.

With a mission to honor and empower wounded warriors, this nonprofit provides essential services including mental health support, career counseling and adaptive sports programs. As one of the most well-known veteran organizations, Wounded Warrior Project helps veterans rebuild and thrive after service.

A Personal Story: Honoring Frank Schofield

Frank Schofield was not only a proud Marine Corps veteran but also a beloved member of the Fire Mountain Gems and Beads family. He served eight years in the military and later led a team of over 1,600 at Johns Hopkins University Hospital, ensuring operations ran smoothly across one of the nation’s top medical institutions. Known for his integrity, leadership and warmth, Frank was deeply respected both in and out of uniform. After his passing from glioblastoma—a rare and aggressive brain cancer—Frank’s wife, Chandra (daughter of FMG owner Chris Freedman), found a powerful way to honor his memory. Through Eternal Reefs, Frank’s ashes were transformed into an ocean reef structure, creating a living legacy that helps restore damaged marine ecosystems off the Florida coast. Read more about honoring Frank Schofield in this full article here.

How You Can Help

This Veteran’s Day, consider supporting a veteran organization with a donation or by spreading awareness. Whether through creative expression, community service or charitable giving, there are many ways to say thank you to those who served. Together, let’s honor our veterans not just on November 11th—but every day.