Our Mission Statement

At Ashes to Honor, our mission is to meticulously reconstruct military service records lost in the tragic fire of 1973 at the National Personnel Records Center. We aim to restore the legacies of forgotten heroes and rectify the profound injustice faced by veterans whose records have been lost.

The heart of our endeavor lies in recognizing the sacrifices of these veterans and ensuring they receive the benefits and recognition they deserve. This mission became deeply personal for me when my grandfather, John Bagen, faced illness without the recognition earned through his service.

It's unacceptable that so many veterans have faded into obscurity, their valorous deeds consigned to oblivion. How many decorated warriors have been forgotten, their stories lost to history? How many returned from combat only to find themselves forgotten?

We believe the key to rectifying this injustice lies in meticulous research and collaboration. By tapping into repositories of information across the nation, we can piece together the puzzle of their service. As a veteran myself, I refuse to accept that hope is lost for these men and women.

Our mission requires a dedicated team committed to restoring honor to those unjustly forgotten. With more hands on original documents, our chances of success multiply. Together, we will ensure that no veteran is left behind, no story goes untold, and no funeral lacks the dignity of full military honors.

From the ashes of neglect, we will rekindle the flames of honor, illuminating the enduring legacies of those who bravely served our nation.