Dedication of MSgt Michael G. Heiser

Center for Post Traumatic Growth

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This day has been a long time coming — born from sacrifice, sustained by generosity, and made possible by people like you who believe that America's veterans deserve nothing less than our very best. On National Post-Traumatic Growth Day, we will together witness a family's love and a foundation's faith become a permanent sanctuary of healing for generations of warriors to come.

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GratitudeAmerica cordially invites you to the dedication of The MSgt Michael G. Heiser Center for Post-Traumatic Growth — a permanent, debt-free sanctuary where combat veterans and first responders find healing, resilience, and renewed purpose, all at no cost to them.

On June 25, 1996, MSgt Michael G. Heiser and 18 fellow Airmen were killed in the bombing of Khobar Towers in Saudi Arabia. In their honor, The Heiser Foundation partnered with GratitudeAmerica to transform that sacrifice into something enduring. On June 13, 2026 — National Post-Traumatic Growth Day — we dedicate this campus to their memory.


Event Details

Saturday, June 13, 2026 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Rain or Shine

GratitudeAmerica Campus 5375 Blue Hole Road Macclenny, FL 32063


Schedule of Events

9:30 AM — Arrival & Welcome Mingle Arrive, connect with fellow guests, and explore the campus welcome area.

10:00 AM — Dedication Ceremony (Begins Promptly) A meaningful ceremony honoring MSgt Michael G. Heiser and his 18 fellow Airmen, and celebrating the formal dedication of the campus in their name. Remarks will be offered by:

  • Michael Anthony — Chief Executive Officer, GratitudeAmerica; Major, U.S. Army (Retired)
  • Steve Gallagher — Board Chair, GratitudeAmerica
  • Tom Heiser — Board Chair, The Heiser Foundation
  • Lewis Jordan — Founder, GratitudeAmerica

The ceremony will conclude by 10:45 AM.

11:00 AM — Lunch A light lunch of sandwiches, cold salads, sweet tea, and lemonade will be served. Lunch is generously sponsored by Synovus Bank.

11:30 AM — Campus Tours & Open House Explore the 25-acre campus at your own pace or join a guided demonstration led by the GratitudeAmerica team. Highlights include:

  • The Labyrinth — a contemplative walking path central to the healing journey
  • Equine Interactions — a live demonstration of the therapeutic paddock experience
  • The Memorial Hall — displaying 19 gold stars honoring the fallen heroes of Khobar Towers
  • The Lodge & Facilities — see firsthand where veterans live and transform during their programs
  • St. Marys River Frontage — 1,500 feet of natural riverfront that anchors the nature-based healing environment

Staff will be stationed throughout the property to share what happens here and answer your questions.

About The MSgt Michael G. Heiser Center for Post-Traumatic Growth

This 25-acre campus along the St. Marys River in Macclenny, Florida is the permanent home of GratitudeAmerica's Warrior PATHH program — an intensive, evidence-based residential experience that has transformed the lives of more than 500 combat veterans since 2019. Programs are provided entirely free to participants and are funded through private philanthropy with no federal or state support.

The campus is named in honor of Master Sergeant Michael G. Heiser, United States Air Force, killed in the 1996 Khobar Towers bombing. The Heiser Foundation — established by his parents, CSM Gary and Frances Heiser — has been GratitudeAmerica's most steadfast partner, and their extraordinary generosity made this permanent, debt-free home possible.

Plan Your Visit

Parking Ample free parking is available on-site.

Attire Smart casual attire is encouraged. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended — this is a Florida summer event and we want you to be comfortable.

Accessibility Please note that the campus is a rural, working property with primarily grassy terrain. It is not fully wheelchair accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us in advance so we can do our best to accommodate you.


Overnight Accommodations

For guests traveling from out of town, a room block has been arranged at:

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville – Macclenny I-10 220 Woodlawn Road, Macclenny, FL 32063 (904) 774-2100 Rate: $110/night

Please mention GratitudeAmerica when booking to receive the group rate.

RSVP

We kindly ask that you RSVP no later than May 31, 2026 so we can plan accordingly.

You may also RSVP by phone at 877-912-7175

Questions? Call us or email info@gratitudeamerica.org