Honoring the land of the free and the home of the brave

Read a message from Raymond James and Valor, our Veterans Inclusion Network, as we celebrate Independence Day. 

Raymond James and Valor, our Veterans Inclusion Network, recognizes the sacrifices military members, veterans and their families make for our nation. Particularly on this historic day – Independence Day – we honor the land of the free and the home of the brave.

A message from Raymond James and Valor:

“For many, Independence Day represents a long weekend or day off, often enjoyed with parades, fireworks and barbecues with family and friends. We look forward to these festivities each year, as it offers a time for us to celebrate our nation while making memories with our families and friends.

Equally important, it offers us a time to honor and reflect on the significance of this day in our nation’s history, particularly to those who protect our nation’s freedom.

What was marked 246 years ago with the signing of the Declaration of Independence has been, and must be, continuously preserved by the ongoing sacrifices of our military communities.

It is in that spirit that on this day, our nation’s Independence Day, we at Raymond James humbly thank and remember all who serve and have served in pursuit of our continued independence.

On behalf of the firm, we wish you and yours a safe and happy holiday weekend.

Andy Zolper, Valor Executive Sponsor

Steven LaBarbera, Valor National Co-chair

Edward Sudzina, Valor National Co-chair

Learn more about Valor and other Raymond James Inclusion Networks

Valor, the Veterans Inclusion Network, is open to all associates – whether they are veterans themselves, military family members or those who support service members. Acutely aware that veterans often face challenges as they transition back to civilian life or continue service through the National Guard and the Army Reserve, our firm has created a network of professionals that can support, develop and promote the unique skill sets of veterans throughout Raymond James.

Our Associate and Advisor Inclusion Networks promote inclusivity through the work of their leaders and members, offering an avenue for us to share, learn and connect. Learn more about the networks here.

Honoring our veterans

Serving those who served

In conjunction with Raymond James Cares Month, associates and advisors from across the country volunteered for Honor Flights, which provides veterans a day trip to Washington, D.C., to visit memorials dedicated to honoring their sacrifices, followed by a welcome home party upon their return.

“Our sole job from the start of the day to the end was to take exceptional care of our veterans,” said associate Karen Chappel. “We carried their bags, made sure they were comfortable, made it on and off the bus or plane, served as personal photographers, etc. Most importantly, we got to know them. The experience touched us all very deeply and we look forward to participating again.

“For many veterans, this was the welcome home they did not receive at their time of service,” said Fran Carman of RJA Branch 35C. “While we were there to serve these men and women, we were moved by the many comments from interacting with the veterans and their families. They were so appreciative and humble for the opportunity to go on this flight, which is free of charge to the veterans.

“What an incredible experience,” added associate Daniel Cole.  

A dynamite #ViewFromTheOffice

According to National Geographic, former President John Adams, who helped write the Declaration of Independence, predicted in a letter to his wife that future generations would celebrate this historic day each year with parades and bonfires.

To ring in Independence Day each year, the Spanos Group of Raymond James does just that through a client and community event near their office in Beaver, Pennsylvania. More than 300 clients, family and friends gather for food, activities and entertainment, followed by a spectacular fireworks show, sponsored by the Spanos Group and other local businesses.

“My greatest reward is hearing clients’ children and grandchildren asking: Can we come again next year?” said Senior Vice President of Investments Sam Spanos. “It’s heartwarming to be a part of these memories and traditions within our community, as we come together to celebrate and honor Independence Day."