Five Questions With... Chris Heisler

Five Questions With...
CHRIS HEISLER, UNITED STATES HONOR FLAG

Shortly after the tragic September 11, 2001 attacks, a flag was gifted to Chris Heisler by the Texas House of Representatives. Like many Americans, Heisler felt compelled to take action during a horrific time for the United States and with this flag in tow, he set out for Ground Zero. Along the way, Heisler helped to organize and be part of one of the longest police motorcades in the history of the United States bound for Ground Zero bringing many tokens of support to our nation’s heroes. This one United States flag flew over Ground Zero and a suggestion was made that this flag continue to fly in support of our heroes. It continues to fly today.

Chris Heisler is my brother. Our family is very proud of him and support the efforts of the United States Honor Flag organization.

AJH-- Our grandfather, John Owen Heisler, was a proud American Legioneer and war veteran, how did growing up around him help guide you later in life?
CH--Grandpa was a man of order. Everything had its place. He was methodical in every action of his life. His attention to detail inspires me still today. His love of sports amazed me. He never missed a televised baseball game. If it was on, he watched it. If he had TV then, like we have today….

AJH--The events of 9/11 effected us all...but it bothered you enough to leave a lucrative career in the private sector and join our nation’s military. That was a huge personal sacrifice. How does that experience guide you today?
CH--It Humbled me. Strengthened me. Today I am back in the private sector with a multi billion dollar firm. The experience gained serving our nation benefits me every day.

AJH--The personal project of the United States Honor Flag has morphed into a very important fabric of our National history, what is the primary mission of the organization today?
CH--To foster education of all Americans regarding our honored heroes in law enforcement, firefighting, and The United States Military.

AJH--Most of the missions of the USHF have been to memorialize law enforcement officers who have been killed in the line of duty. What has been the response of the effected families, and has there been a single incident that has touched you the deepest?
CH--The response is continuous and amazing. Washington, D.C. in May was an amazing experience for us, but I have to say that every time we bring this Flag into an airport and stop crowds….those tears of pride on people I have never met. Priceless. We call that the “Goose Bump” effect. We see it every time the flag moves. Every time.

AJH--What can hockey teams and fans do to help?
CH--Stay tuned, we just received our 501-c3 status. Check the often for mission updates. http://www.ushonorflag.org/.

Thanks Chris!!