A retired Army colonel from the Williamsburg area has successfully raised $103,000 for the Folds of Honor charity, which supports families of fallen military personnel and first responders. On March 25, 2024, retired Colonel Howard Bachman gathered his classmates from the United States Military Academy Class of 1964 at the Williamsburg Inn to make this significant donation.
The donation ceremony was part of a series of events, including a golf tournament held at the Golden Horseshoe Golf Course in Colonial Williamsburg. Bachman, 85, has chaired this annual tournament for seven years, aiming to raise funds for the nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to the spouses and children of military members who have died or been disabled in service.
Members of the West Point Class of 1964 attended the tournament as an informal reunion. Dan Evans, also a retired Army colonel and chairman of the class, noted that this marks the third time the class has participated in the event. This year, nearly three dozen classmates and widows took part in a four-day program, underscoring the strong bonds formed at the academy.
Bachman, with the assistance of Evans, initiated the fundraising efforts by encouraging classmates to honor their fallen comrades. Allen Wronowski, the regional impact officer for Folds of Honor, praised the class for their commitment, stating, “The scholarships will make an impact” in the lives of the recipients.
Before the golf tournament, a memorial service was held to honor classmates who lost their lives, particularly during the Vietnam War. The service included a reading of their names and concluded with the playing of “Taps,” a poignant tribute to their sacrifice.
Bachman was invited by KemperSports Management, a long-time supporter of Folds of Honor, to chair the local tournament. He embraced this role, remarking that it provided him an opportunity to give back to those who had supported him throughout his life. He emphasized the importance of education, stating, “It can be life-changing” for the students who benefit from the scholarships.
In addition to the main donation, sponsors and supporters of the tournament contributed an extra $47,000, ensuring that at least nine additional scholarships can be funded through the Folds of Honor program. This collective effort showcases the commitment of the community to support military families in need.
The dedication shown by Bachman and his classmates highlights not only their enduring camaraderie but also their commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much.