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Since its founding in 2015, Children of Fallen Heroes has proudly served over 14,000 children, providing hope, healing, and opportunity to the families of fallen military heroes, first responders, and communities in need. The organization’s mission is deeply personal to its founder, Ken Wasley, whose life has been shaped by a legacy of service, sacrifice, and resilience.
Ken’s journey began with the tragic loss of his father, Sergeant Michael Wasley, a member of the Gold Team of the U.S. Army Parachute Team. In 1973, Sergeant Wasley, along with fellow Gold Team members, lost his life in a devastating plane crash while serving his country. This moment forever changed Ken’s family and instilled in him a lifelong commitment to honoring the fallen and supporting their families.
Reflecting on his own childhood, Ken shares, "As a child, we didn’t have the kind of support to help us through the loss of a parent. Back then, we just didn’t know what resources or understanding could make a difference. Growing up without that support shaped me in ways I couldn’t fully understand until much later. I made a commitment to ensure that no child experiencing a similar loss would feel the way I did—isolated and unsupported. Knowing what I went through, I see the profound impact this kind of help could have made in my life, and I’m dedicated to providing that for children in need today."
Through Children of Fallen Heroes, Ken hopes to turn pain into purpose, creating a lasting legacy of care and empowerment for the next generation.
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Ken’s mother, originally from Japan, displayed extraordinary strength and resilience in the face of profound loss. After meeting Sergeant Michael Wasley at Camp Zama during his Vietnam War service, she built a life grounded in compassion, perseverance, and love. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the enduring impact of selfless dedication to family and community.
Following her first husband’s passing, she remarried Sergeant Major James Walter Kraft, a decorated Vietnam War veteran honored with the Silver Star and two Bronze Stars for his bravery and service. Together, they built a family rooted in integrity, service, and perseverance—values that continue to guide and inspire.
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A stepfather in every sense of the word, Sergeant Major Kraft embraced the role of father with unwavering dedication. For nearly 50 years, he has stood steadfastly by his wife’s side, embodying strength, love, and commitment. His remarkable legacy reflects the power of family and the profound impact of selfless devotion.
Ken’s sister, Sergeant Michael Wasley’s daughter, has shown quiet resilience after the heartbreaking loss of her son Dylan, who was killed by a drunk driver in 2020. She has found solace through Vaquero Horsemanship and Classical Riding, dedicating herself to her private work with horses through her Together Training program. Her journey reflects the strength and healing that Children of Fallen Heroes strives to inspire in all the families it supports.
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In 2023, CFH commemorated the 50th anniversary of the plane crash that claimed Sgt. Michael Wasley and fellow U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights members.
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A commemorative jump at the Silk Hope, NC crash site brought together the Golden Knights, former teammates, CFH Parachute Team, the Silk Hope Fire Department, and the Sheriff’s Department. This tribute honored their legacy and highlighted the community’s ongoing dedication to remembering these heroes.
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This event reaffirmed CFH’s mission to honor sacrifices and support families of fallen heroes.
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The loss of Ken’s nephew Dylan and his grandfather, Sergeant Michael Wasley,
was a deeply profound moment that became a cornerstone in expanding
CFH's mission. Dylan, a gifted chef with a passion for cooking nurtured by his grandmother, and Sergeant Michael Wasley, a dedicated serviceman whose strength and sacrifice exemplified honor, continue to inspire everything we do. Their legacies will live on through the Children of Fallen Heroes Retreat and STEM+Arts Education Center, a transformative sanctuary located on 82 acres in Moore County, NC.
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This dedicated space will provide healing, creativity, and growth for children of fallen heroes, foster kids, Title One students, and caregivers. While the Wasley family bloodline may end here, the spirits of Dylan and Sergeant Michael Wasley endure—woven into every act of service that touches lives and sparks hope.
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Through serving others, we honor the sacrifices and legacies of Dylan, Sergeant Michael Wasley, and those who came before us. By carrying their light forward with love, compassion, and purpose, we build a legacy of hope that will inspire generations to come.
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