The Flagpole Newsletter Edition 120 | July 2026

The USA Celebrates 250 Years!

The Fourth of July is celebrated each year on July 4 and commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, when American colonies formally declared their separation from Great Britain. This event led to the founding of the United States and established core principles such as individual rights and self governance.

July 4, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary (Semiquincentennial) of American independence.

This is the last month to apply for an AWF-Trident Scholarship

Eligibility for the scholarships is determined by factors such as merit, academic potential, community service, letters of recommendation, and demonstrated financial need. Trident University International's grants and scholarships follow established guidelines found in the University’s Catalog or on its website, and awards are given once eligibility requirements are confirmed. For more information on the scholarship, visit https://www.awfdn.org/scholarships/awf-trident/ or contact our office at info@awfdn.org.

Get your 2027 Hall of Fame Nominations in soon!

The 2027 U.S. Army Women's Foundation Hall of Fame and Champion nomination forms are now available. Annually the U.S. Army Women’s Foundation honors the service and sacrifices of U.S. Army women through our Hall of Fame Induction and Champion Awards program. Women who have served in the Army or the Armed Forces and contributed extraordinary service are eligible for induction into the U.S. Army Women’s Foundation Hall of Fame. Our Champion Awards are presented to any individual who has made exceptional contributions to women in the Army or the Armed Forces. We are now accepting nominations through August 10, 2026.

For program information and nomination forms, please visit our website.

Korean War Veterans Armistice Day

(Photo credit: U.S. Army National Guard/Spc. Stephen Wright)

Observed annually on July 27, National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day marks the anniversary of the 1953 armistice that led to the end of active fighting in the Korean War, and established a ceasefire and creation of the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

Team River Runner: Sunday Family Paddle Program at Riley's Lock

Team River Runner invites veterans and their families to join our Sunday Family Kayaking Paddle Program at Riley’s Lock, Maryland, every Sunday from 2–5 PM. This free, community‑centered program provides kayaks, gear, and instruction for all skill levels.

Riley’s Lock features an adaptive pier, and our team provides adaptive paddling equipment to ensure that all wounded warriors and family members—including those with mobility, balance, or limb‑difference challenges—can fully participate on the water.

We welcome veterans from every background and community to connect, recharge, and enjoy time outdoors with family.

Meet the AWF Board

Coming Soon

Sponsor Spotlight

Keep Your Hair Headgear is a certified Small Minority, Woman, and Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business and proud sponsor of the U.S. Army Women’s Foundation. Our mission is to protect sensitive skin and hair from damage caused by wearing moisture-absorbing wool, cotton, and nylon headwear. We strive toward this objective by providing innovative high-quality headwear products lined with satin and silk that are gentle on your hair and sensitive skin. The vision of Keep Your Hair Headgear is to become the premier provider of silk-lined military headwear, satin-lined official licensed headwear (D9 Sororities/Fraternities, HBCUs, and Military Services) and satin-lined headwear to corporations. Our headwear supports diversity and inclusion by protecting all hair types and accommodates braids, locks, and skin; especially sensitive skin of cancer patients.