In Honor of all Servicemen and Servicewomen

Past, Present, Future

Cost of Freedom, Inc. 

Donors who make charitable contributions will receive an acknowledgement from Cost of Freedom, Inc. and may be eligible for a tax deduction on their income tax return.

Cost of Freedom was honored to receive a $10,000 grant from the MassMutual Foundation’s Community Service Award (CSA) program in May of 2025.  Nominated by COF Board Member, Deanna Filosa, this grant will allow us to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of service men and women

Bob Madden

President​​

Click to Download the 2025 Cost of Freedom Calendar

2024 COST OF FREEDOM WEEKEND

​December 13th - December 15th

A Message from our President

The Cost of Freedom team proudly hosted its 19th Annual Army-Navy weekend at Turf Valley Resort, Ellicott City, MD this past December 12th-14th.  We were privileged to welcome 18 honored guest families, 12 of which were Army combat wounded veterans, 4 Marine Corps/Navy, and two Gold Star families.  For many this was a true bucket list experience, matching up Navy (9-2) and Army (6-5) on Saturday for the Commander-in-Chief trophy, ending in dramatic fashion, with Navy edging out Army 17-16 to retain the coveted trophy. The 86 guests, including 17 children, transformed from strangers into “family,” united by shared sacrifice and gratitude. The weekend theme was “Choosing Courage.” It began with toasting to “God, family, and country” with Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and first responders honoring all who serve. James “Pipes” Pritchard set the tone with stirring Highland bagpipes leading into festivities that honored our flag – National Anthem sung by honored guest spouse Angela Harmon, pledge of allegiance led by our future cyberspace warriors, “Ragged Old Flag” performed by Rob Madden ’97, and a White Table ceremony led by 1st Denis Oliverio. USMC (Ret). The colors were posted by USAFJROTC Color Guard, including a special flag folding ceremony, leading the way to an evening of reflection, purpose, and appreciation. We were blessed to have two American patriots as our guest speakers. Major Brian Chontosh, USMC (Ret), Navy Cross recipient, reminded us “courage is not something you think about ahead of time. It is at the moment. “ CSM Gary Littrell, USA (Ret), Medal of Honor recipient spoke on “integrity,” his favorite word, and guided us along the path which included courage, commitment, sacrifice, citizenship, and patriotism. His wife, Suzanne Littrell, a Hollywood stunt actress, and All-American Surfer encouraged the women to be fearless in breaking barriers. Marianna Winchester, mother of 1st Lt Ron Winchester, USMC, KIA 9/3/2004 shared the profound journey of a Gold Star parent, describing our COF weekends together as unmatched therapy. “A soldier is not gone until he is forgotten. We must never forget.” One could sense the bonds of love and respect amongst all that attended, knowing all had given some, and some had given all. Our annual “Candle Ceremony”, led by Sgt Christa Collier, USAF (Ret) paired veterans with children, symbolizing the handoff of values – honor, courage, commitment – to the next generation.

As part of our outreach to veterans in need, Deanna Filosa shared the many lives that were touched by our “Keeping Spirits Bright” holiday gifting program. The impact was felt in several VA districts, including Atlanta, Cincinnati, Maine, St Augustine, and Long Island.

The Army-Navy game brought spirited rivalry, especially for the veteran families present. Yet despite the narrow loss, all stood shoulder to shoulder in respect and unity. We were blessed again with a sheriff escort to and from the game and a Travis Manion Foundation VIP tailgate. Securing tickets for all yet remains a major hurdle, yet through the generosity of the Baltimore Ravens and USNA classmates, 68 tickets were obtained ensuring the tradition continues.

Saturday night was marked by solemn reflection and celebration. Brigadier General David “Angus” Walsh, USMC delivered an inspiring message, “Courage is a Choice,” while CWO5 Phyllis Wilson, USA (Ret.) honored the vital role of women in the military—as service members, spouses, and caregivers. In recognition of their perseverance as often “unsung heroes,” L’Oréal presented each with a special gift of gratitude.

No Cost of Freedom weekend would be complete without the stirring words of our poet laureate, Rodney Harmon, USA. Taking on the voice of a fallen Navy SEAL, he recounted the courageous act that claimed his life. His performance drew us into the moment—walking us through fear, sacrifice, and brotherhood—leaving the room deeply moved and reflective of the past, present, and future

The weekend concluded with warmth and fellowship. The Class of ’72 spouses hosted a heartfelt Sunday breakfast in the hospitality suite. Guests were treated to home-baked goods, healthy offerings, and plenty of hugs, sending everyone off with nourishment and love.

Our mission is clear: “to honor and inspire the brave servicemen, servicewomen, and their families affected by combat by showing them deep appreciation and unwavering encouragement.”

It is rooted in enduring values - honor, courage, commitment, respect, sacrifice, and valor – principles we strive to instill within our communities and pass on to future generations. We affirm a solemn truth, the sacrifices of our Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, and Airmen must never be forgotten – and freedom is not free.

The 19th Annual Cost of Freedom Weekend was more than an event – it was a living tribute to courage, integrity, and remembrance. Bonds of love and respect were strengthened, reminding all that while all gave some, some gave all, none will ever be forgotten. 

Go Navy, Go Army, Go America!
Visit us at CostofFreedomInc.org.

Warm regards,
Bob Madden and The Cost of Freedom Team

Our Board of Directors

Bob Madden, Co-Founder and President*
Ron Stowell, Co-Founder and Treasurer*
Paul Huck, Secretary*
Sgt Adam Kisielewski, USMC (Ret)

Robert S. Madden II
Deanna Filosa

​Bob Zimmerman, Director Emeritus*
Hugh Blomeke, Director Emeritus*

Sgt Christine Collier, USAF (Ret)

​*USNA Class of 1972

​

​Click for Slideshow

Pictured: Bob Madden, Deanna Filosa and Robert S. Madden

COF Board Member, Deanna Filosa, was awarded a $20,000 grant by Invest in Others for the 

"Empowered Women Empower Women" Program