Background Statement
The Honor Bell: A Reverent Tribute to American Service Members
The Honor Bell stands as a symbol of unwavering respect and gratitude, embodying the sacrifices of United States Service Members killed in action and United States Armed Forces Veterans. Cast with a singular purpose—to toll as a final honor for those who served—this bell is a timeless tribute to the bravery, dedication, and legacy of our nation’s heroes.
Commissioned and dedicated on Memorial Day of 2016, the Honor Bell is the first of its kind in U.S. history. This stationary bronze masterpiece measures thirty-seven inches in diameter, stands forty inches tall, and weighs an impressive one thousand pounds. Designed with precision and reverence, it is tolled exclusively by veterans, each ring a profound gesture of respect.
Forged From Honor
The Honor Bell’s motto, "Forged From Honor," reflects its unique creation. During its casting, artifacts from twelve deceased service members were melded into the molten bronze, representing veteran’s past, present, and future. These cherished items, now an inseparable part of the bell, ensure that their legacy endures in every toll. Truly, it can be said that the Honor Bell is more than bronze—it is a vessel of honor, history, and remembrance.
A Journey of Dedication
In May 2016, these artifacts were escorted from Denver, Colorado, to the foundry in Cincinnati, Ohio, by the Patriot Guard Riders and other patriotic organizations. Each state transfer was marked by solemn ceremonies, emphasizing collective reverence for our fallen heroes. The Verdin Company, a renowned foundry in Ohio, cast this half-ton bell to the Foundation's exacting specifications.
Once the Honor Bell was complete, it began its journey home to Colorado. Accompanied by representatives of the Honor Bell Foundation and the Bell Honor Guard, it was presented to communities along the way, fostering connection and appreciation for its profound mission. The bell’s dedication ceremony on Memorial Day 2016, at Fort Logan National Cemetery, marked the beginning of its sacred duty.
Support the Mission of the Honor Bell Foundation
The Honor Bell Foundation continues its vital mission to honor and remember U.S. veterans, but we cannot do it alone. Your support is crucial to maintaining and expanding this work. By donating to the Foundation, you ensure the Honor Bell remains a lasting symbol of respect and gratitude for generations to come.
Help us uphold the tradition of rendering a final honor to those who have served. Your contribution—no matter the size—makes a profound impact. Together, let us honor their sacrifices and preserve their legacy.