On November 15, 2025, the North Texas community united in extraordinary support of Folds of Honor – North Texas, the nonprofit that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of U.S. military service members and first responders who have fallen or been disabled in service. Held on the iconic field at AT&T Stadium, the gala raised over $4.6 million to fund life-changing scholarships for these families. More than 1,700 guests attended an evening filled with patriotism and purpose, including a VIP cocktail reception, seated dinner, dynamic live and silent auctions, and high-energy entertainment by the Emerald City Band.
“This gala is more than just a fundraiser — it’s a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when a community comes together for a cause that truly matters,” said Sarah Elliott, Senior Director of Impact and Leader for Folds of Honor North Texas. “Education is one of the most powerful ways we can ensure their legacy lives on. It gives children and spouses of our heroes the opportunity to build a strong future and carry forward the values of service, sacrifice, and resilience.”
A highlight of the evening was a fireside chat between former President George W. Bush and Folds of Honor CEO and Founder Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, whose conversation on service and sacrifice set a powerful tone for the night.
Guests also heard an emotional tribute from Ginger Gilbert Ravella, mother of five Folds of Honor scholarship recipients, who reflected on her late husband’s service and the organization’s lasting impact. “When my husband, Major Troy Gilbert, died serving our country, I had five children under the age of 9, and I suddenly found myself a widow at 36,” she shared. “This year marks almost 20 years since his passing, and Folds of Honor has never allowed me to feel alone in this journey. When they first contacted me, I never imagined our ship would sail all the way to college, much less to graduate school. Folds of Honor helped that happen.”
This year’s gala surpassed last year’s fundraising total, and the generosity of attendees will directly support thousands of scholarship recipients across the country.
“We are incredibly humbled by the outpouring of support from the North Texas community,” said Mike Beltz, Board Chair for the North Texas Chapter. “Together, we continue to grow this mission and provide vital educational opportunities to the families who need it most.”
The live auction energized the room with an array of exceptional items and experiences, including a 1969 Corvette Stingray, a custom Folds of Honor Jeep Gladiator, and seven nights in Cabo San Lucas at the luxurious Villa Colibrí. Bidders also competed for a premier clay shooting experience featuring Benelli shotguns, a golf getaway for four at Muirfield Village Golf Club, and two Shoals Lagotto Romagnolo puppies with lifetime training. Additional standout packages included a 1-of-1 Custom Folds of Honor Springfield Armory 1911 pistol, two rounds of golf for four at The Bear’s Club with lunch with Jack Nicklaus, and a custom Folds of Honor 1 KG silver mintage bar.
Through the unwavering support of the community, the North Texas Chapter continues to advance Folds of Honor’s mission — ensuring that the families of America’s fallen and disabled heroes have access to the education they deserve.