The 9/11 Angels: Rafterman's Tribute to Sacrifice: In a recent episode of American Warrior Radio, listeners were treated to an inspiring conversation with Kevyn Major Howard, renowned actor and founder of the nonprofit organization, Fueled by the Fallen. Best known for his role as Rafterman in the iconic film Full Metal Jacket, Howard has dedicated himself to a new mission beyond the silver screen: honoring the sacrifices of American heroes.
The heart of Howard's mission lies in Fueled by the Fallen, a nonprofit he founded after a profound 'aha moment' with his first tribute car. This initiative, known as the '21 car salute to America', pays homage to various service branches, fallen police officers, and victims of the 9/11 attacks. Each meticulously crafted vehicle serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice woven into the fabric of American history.
The Unveiling of the 9/11 Angel Tribute Cars
In August 2011, the five 9/11 Angel Cars were unveiled on the lawn of the United States Capitol and were present at Ground Zero for the 10th Anniversary of 9/11. They have been on the road since, providing comfort to those affected by 9/11.
We haven't met too many people, if any, that have not been affected by these tribute cars. And teaching our children seven forgotten words: Yes Sir, No Sir, Please, and Thank You. Fueled By The Fallen made a promise to Never Forget. ~Kevyn
The Impact of 'the Angel Cars' on Youth
Howard highlighted the profound significance of the Angel Cars in two main areas. First, they serve as a powerful reminder of history and a tribute to those who have sacrificed for our freedom. Second, they provide a tangible and inspiring connection for the youth, many of whom were not yet born during these events. These tribute cars, adorned with the stories of fallen heroes, ignite a passion in young minds, inspiring them to aspire to roles in firefighting, law enforcement, and military service.
(9/11 Memorial Museum. Photo by Jin S. Lee)
The Angel Cars offer a unique and accessible way for children to grasp the importance of these sacrifices. Through the initiative "Fueled by the Fallen," Howard is dedicated to ensuring that the legacy of these heroes endures, reminding us all of the immense debt we owe to those who serve. By continuing to collaborate with cities, schools, organizations, museums, and recruiting commands, the impact of Angel Cars can reach even more hearts and minds, continuing to educate and inspire future generations.
About Kevyn Major Howard
KEVYN 'RAFTERMAN' HOWARD
"Rafterman" in Stanley Kubrick's Full Metal Jacket
Kevyn Major Howard, a Canadian actor, is best known for his role as 'Rafterman' in the movie Full Metal Jacket. He played Marine Private First Class Rafterman as a combat photographer. The movie follows a platoon of US Marines through boot camp training, in Parris Island, SC, and their experiences in Da Nang and Huế during the Tet Offensive of the Vietnam War.
Other notable films that Howard has acted in include:
- Alien Nation as 'Kipling'
- War Party as 'Calvin'
- Roadhouse 66 as 'Dink'
- Sudden Impact as 'Hawkins'
- Death Wish II as 'Stomper'
Television credits include Howard as a Guest Star include:
- Crusade
- Miami Vice
- Magnum P.I.
- MacGyver
- The A-Team
- Heroes of Desert Storm
- The Outsiders
- Riptide
- and many others
As a film actor, Howard has had the pleasure of working with Frank Sinatra, Clint Eastwood, Charles Bronson, Ron Howard, James Caan, Willem Dafoe, Lawrence Fishburne, Robert Blake, George Peppard, Tom Selleck, Don Johnson, Mathew Modine, Vincent D'Onofrio, Adam Baldwin, Ed O'Ross, Arliss Howard, Sondra Locke, Mandy Patinkin, Terrence Stamp, Judge Reinhold, Alan Autry, Stan Shaw, William Sanderson, Jill Ireland, Vincent Gardenia, Mare Wingingham, Keenan Wyans, Daniel Baldwin, Parnell Roberts, Tyne Daly, Sharon Gless, Robert Stack, Dorian Harewood, James Russo, Rod Steiger, Gary Busey, Richard Dean Anderson, Sally Kellerman, Martin Mull, Pamela Bellwood, and Tuesday Weld.
He is also known as the ‘King of The Hollywood Headshot’ deemed by John Cleese and Elizabeth Hurley and is featured in the Discovery Channel docu-series The Human Face. His photography excellence is known worldwide.
Howard is also a philanthropist and a Founder of 'Fueled By The Fallen' Memorial Cars. The non-profit provides scholarships to children of fallen heroes.
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