2025 Annual Meeting & Visiting 9/11 memorials
In November of 2025, the all-volunteer board for The 98 Fund met to focus on what we accomplished during 2025, (despite some challenges from Mother Nature), and refine our upcoming plans for the years ahead. This year, The 98 Fund board chose to meet in New York City. Special thanks to dedicated board member Chris McQuillan for facilitating this important annual gathering at a fantastic location!
The 98 Fund Board Members
Meeting just prior to Veterans Day allowed us to focus on our journey thus far, and our purpose behind both The 98 Fund and The Alaska Project. Being in New York City also gave us the opportunity to visit the World Trade Center site — a profoundly moving experience that reminded us why we serve. Together, our team spent time at the 9/11 Memorial, reflecting on the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the countless families forever changed by that day. We also visited the adjacent American Response Monument, which honors the courage, unity, and sacrifice of all those who answered the call in the aftermath of the attacks. Standing beside these powerful memorials offered a moment of peace and solidarity with our Gold Star board members and reaffirmed our shared commitment to supporting those who continue to carry the weight of loss and service.
America’s Response Monument, also known as The Horse Soldier Monument
By the end of the day, we had refocused our efforts on 2026 & Beyond, and are now committed more than ever to connecting with Gold Star & Survivor Families, Veterans, other Veteran Service Organizations, and the many supporters - like you - as we keep the mission and vision moving forward.
And as we reflect on this Veterans Day, we would like to extend heartfelt THANK YOU to all who chose to raise their right hand in service to our nation! Your service and sacrifice is appreciated by so many, and especially by your family, friends, and supporters who truly understand that Freedom Is Not Free.
