About Us

Chariots of Honor was established by our co-founders, Eric, Thomas, and Herb, driven by a profound dedication to honoring and supporting our military veterans. 

Recognizing the immense sacrifices made by those who have served our nation, they envisioned an organization committed to preserving the legacy of service and providing ongoing assistance to veterans and their families. 

Through steadfast commitment and purposeful action, Chariots of Honor exemplifies the enduring values of duty, honor, and country, ensuring that our veterans continue to receive the respect and support they so rightfully deserve.

#ChariotsOfHonor #CarryingHonorThroughProcession #DutyHonorCountry #StillServing #BeTheChange

Founded in April 2021 in Ashburn, Virginia, Chariots of Honor is a distinguished nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization proudly veteran-owned and entirely operated by dedicated volunteers from the community. 

Our organization is deeply committed to honoring and celebrating the sacrifices and service of our military veterans through the solemn and respectful tradition of honorary processions.

Chariots of Honor was established with a clear and profound mission: to provide veterans with the recognition and respect they so richly deserve, ensuring that their legacy of courage, dedication, and patriotism is preserved and honored within our communities. 

We believe that through these processions, we can convey heartfelt gratitude and inspire a collective sense of appreciation for those who have selflessly served our nation.

On May 1, 2021, just weeks after our founding, Chariots of Honor proudly hosted its inaugural Celebratory Procession for Colonel Carl C. Johnson, a revered Tuskegee Airman and U.S. Army Retired officer. This landmark event marked the beginning of our ongoing commitment to honor veterans of all eras with dignity and respect, highlighting their remarkable stories and lifelong contributions to our country.

OUR MISSION

At Chariots of Honor, we are unwavering in our commitment to honor and recognize the extraordinary service and sacrifice of our military veterans. 

Through solemn and dignified honorary processions, we pay profound tribute to these heroes, ensuring their unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions to our nation are respectfully celebrated and eternally remembered.

Guided by principles of respect, gratitude, and community solidarity, our mission is to unite individuals and communities in heartfelt recognition of those who have selflessly served. 

We strive to instill a lasting appreciation for their sacrifices and foster a shared commitment to upholding their legacy.

#ChariotsOfHonor #CarryingHonorThroughProcession #HonorOurVeterans #DutyHonorCountry #VeteranTribute #MilitaryHeroes #CommunitySupport #NeverForget #HonorAndRespect #VeteranOwned #GratitudeInAction #HonoringService #AllVolunteer #GivingBack #MilitaryAppreciation #VeteransDeserveHonor

Meet Eric Holland - An Inspiring, Courageous, and Principled Patriot

Eric Holland served with honor and distinction in the United States Marine Corps from 1983 to 2011, retiring as a Master Gunnery Sergeant from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton after 28 years of dedicated service. As an Aviation Operations Specialist (7041), Eric held leadership roles in some of the most prestigious and high-stakes assignments in the military.

Eric’s exceptional career reflects a steadfast commitment to excellence and leadership at the highest levels. As a member of the elite Presidential Helicopter Squadron One, he provided critical support to the administrations of President George H. W. Bush and President Bill Clinton, ensuring the safety and mobility of the nation’s highest office under demanding and sensitive conditions. Trusted with immense responsibility, Eric also served as Detachment Commander at U.S. Embassies in Lomé, Togo, and Tel Aviv, Israel—key diplomatic posts where he represented both the United States and the Marine Corps with distinction.

From 1996 to 1999, Eric’s service on official U.S. Embassy duty placed him at the forefront of international relations during challenging and high-pressure environments. His leadership and diplomatic skills were instrumental in maintaining security and fostering cooperation abroad, exemplifying the highest standards of professionalism and dedication. Throughout his career, Eric consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to mission success, the welfare of his team, and the honor of the United States.

 A combat veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom (2005–2007), Eric demonstrated exceptional courage, resilience, and leadership under some of the most demanding and dangerous conditions. Navigating complex and high-risk operational environments, he led his teams with unwavering determination and strategic insight, ensuring mission success while prioritizing the safety and welfare of those under his command. His firsthand experience in combat not only tested his skills and resolve but also deepened his commitment to service, further solidifying his reputation as a steadfast, capable leader who excels in the face of adversity. Eric’s leadership in wartime operations has left a lasting impact on his units and serves as a testament to his dedication to his country and fellow service members. 

 After many decades apart, Eric and Herb’s paths amazingly crossed once again—almost as if destiny had brought them back together. Remarkably, they graduated from the same high school class, both served honorably in the military, and have continued their dedication to supporting our military, veterans, and community long after their active service ended. This powerful reunion underscores the importance of lasting bonds forged through shared experiences and highlights their renewed commitment to uplifting veterans. Together, their collaboration strengthens the impact they can have in advocating for those who have served, ensuring that the sacrifices of veterans are honored and their needs met with compassion and action. 

 Following his military retirement, Eric embraced a new mission—shaping the future by serving as a high school teacher. In the classroom, he passionately instills the values of patriotism, service, and integrity, recognizing that educating and inspiring our youth is critical to sustaining the ideals that protect and strengthen our nation. By guiding the next generation with the same principles that defined his military career, Eric is investing in a legacy of leadership and civic responsibility that will empower young minds to carry forward the torch of service and commitment to country. 

#FunFact

#EricLovesHistory

eric@chariotsofhonor.com

Meet Herbert Valle – A Patriot, Leader, and Tireless Advocate for Veterans

 Herbert Valle is a proud recipient of the U.S. Navy Academic Collegiate Scholarship and a graduate of the prestigious U.S. Navy Officer Candidate School. Throughout his distinguished military career, he served at the forefront of some of the most pivotal operations in modern history, including Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Operation Provide Comfort. 

 Selected as Program Manager for a critical strategic initiative, Herbert Valle was entrusted with reorganizing all Atlantic-based Navy training commands into a single, centralized organization. Beginning with a small team of just five people, Herb played a key role in helping build and expand the Commander Afloat Training Group Atlantic (COMAFLOATRAGRULANT) into a strong command with over 100 military and government personnel. This mission-critical command standardized and elevated fleet training and certification across the Atlantic Fleet. Through Herb’s dedicated support and collaborative leadership, the Navy’s training operations were transformed, significantly enhancing operational readiness and ensuring lasting mission success. 

 Under Commander, Training Atlantic (COMTRALANT)—the Navy command responsible for overseeing and managing all Atlantic-based training operations and infrastructure—Herb’s leadership was nothing short of transformative. He spearheaded numerous large-scale infrastructure and operational projects that not only immediately enhanced the Atlantic Fleet’s training capabilities but also laid a durable foundation for sustained excellence. His strategic vision and execution ensured that the Navy’s training infrastructure evolved to meet future challenges, directly shaping the long-term readiness and enduring mission success of the fleet for years to come. 

After transitioning from active duty, Herbert seamlessly carried his mission-driven mindset into the civilian sector, bringing the same level of dedication and strategic focus to improving government agencies. Today, he is a highly respected management consultant in the Washington, D.C. metro area, renowned for delivering innovative technology solutions and expert program management that drive efficiency, modernization, and mission success across a wide range of federal organizations.

Herb’s work spans complex, large-scale projects that enhance operational capabilities, streamline processes, and integrate cutting-edge technologies, enabling agencies to serve the public better and respond to evolving challenges. His collaborative leadership style, combined with a deep understanding of government operations and a relentless commitment to excellence, has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor and transformative partner in advancing the missions of numerous federal departments and agencies.

  On September 11, 2001, Herbert was inside the Pentagon when it was struck by American Airlines Flight 77—a Boeing 757 hijacked by terrorists in a coordinated attack against our nation. That harrowing event profoundly shaped his life and purpose. Surviving that day not only reinforced his deep sense of duty, but also became a catalyst that ignited an even greater commitment to serve his country and community. The experience instilled in Herb an unwavering resolve to do more—to lead, to advocate, and to give back. Since then, he has dedicated himself tirelessly to championing the needs of military personnel and veterans, using his voice, leadership, and energy to honor their sacrifices and create a lasting, positive impact in their lives and the communities they protect. 

 A passionate volunteer and servant leader, Herb is a driving force in the veteran community, dedicating his time and talents to organizations such as the USO, VFW, American Legion, DAV, AMVETS, and the Marine Corps League. His unwavering commitment to service extends beyond the military, as he actively supports and engages with law enforcement through his completion of the FBI Citizens Academy, Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy, and Fairfax County Citizens Police Academy. Whether standing beside veterans or first responders, Herb leads with purpose, patriotism, and an unshakable sense of duty. 

Herbert’s life is defined by courage, service, and purpose—on the battlefield, in the boardroom, and throughout the community.

 #FunFact 

#HerbLovesShoes 

president@chariotsofhonor.com

Meet Thomas Setnor -  A Dedicated, Courageous, Creative Patriot

 With a proud legacy of military service in the Setnor family dating back to World War I—a defining moment that shaped generations of American patriots—Thomas Setnor carried that torch forward with unwavering honor as a United States Marine. Following in the footsteps of his ancestors who answered the call during pivotal chapters in history, Thomas served as a Field Military Police Officer, playing a vital role in convoy security operations amid the complexities of the Iraq conflict. His leadership extended further as he commanded advisory teams during two combat deployments to Afghanistan, where his bravery and dedication earned him the prestigious Marine Corps Combat Action Ribbon, recognizing his courage under fire in some of the most challenging theaters of modern warfare. 

 Following his distinguished military service, Thomas Setnor continued his unwavering commitment to national security by working as a defense contractor supporting multiple U.S. intelligence agencies. In this critical role, he applied his frontline experience and deep understanding of military operations to enhance intelligence capabilities and safeguard the nation from emerging threats. His work behind the scenes has been vital in enabling timely and accurate intelligence gathering, analysis, and response—key components in protecting American interests at home and abroad. Thomas’s dedication to service, both in uniform and as a civilian, underscores the ongoing sacrifices made by veterans who continue to contribute to the safety and security of the country long after their active duty ends. 

 Today, Thomas continues his steadfast commitment to service in a new role, proudly wearing a different uniform as a Corporal with the U.S. Treasury Bureau of Engraving and Printing Police. In this critical position, he plays an essential role in protecting one of the nation’s most secure and vital facilities, ensuring the safety and integrity of the country’s currency production. Thomas’s ongoing dedication to safeguarding America reflects a lifelong devotion to duty—demonstrating that his commitment to protecting the nation remains as strong as ever. 

 Beyond his law enforcement duties, Thomas pours his heart and passion into Patriots Spear Crafting, a handcrafted business devoted to honoring the valor and sacrifice of military personnel and First Responders. Through this meaningful venture, he creates customized, one-of-a-kind gifts that serve as lasting tributes to the heroes’ courage and dedication. At Patriots Spear Crafting, every piece is crafted with intentionality and care, blending personal touches with meticulous artistry to ensure each creation uniquely reflects the story and spirit of the individual it celebrates. Thomas’s commitment to this work is a powerful extension of his lifelong dedication to service and remembrance. 

 Deeply committed to honoring veterans and strengthening the community, Thomas dedicates himself to multiple vital roles. As a member of the Honor Guard, he solemnly upholds the traditions that pay respect to those who have served. His expertise as a certified firearms instructor ensures that the highest standards of safety and skill are maintained among law enforcement personnel. Additionally, Thomas’s active involvement with the D.C. Special Olympics Law Enforcement Council reflects his passion for fostering inclusion, support, and positive community impact. Together, these roles exemplify his unwavering dedication to service, leadership, and making a meaningful difference beyond the call of duty. 

#FunFact

#ThomasLovesWoodworkAndPainting

thomas@chariotsofhonor.com