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2 0 2 5 F I V E S T A R C O N F E R E N C E & E X P O 55 October 2025 » provide programs that offer special- ized supportive services to our nation's combat-wounded heroes and Gold Star families. Their programs focus on home and vehicle ownership, outdoor recre- ation, life skills, financial education, and leadership development. The lights then dimmed for a special video featuring interviews with wound- ed veterans and Gold Star spouses being recognized during the ceremony, all of whom were recipients of mortgage-free homes donated on behalf of Wells Far- go. It was an emotional moment as this year's honored veterans took the stage, including Derek Austin, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.), and Jaye VanBoening, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.), along- side Gold Star spouse Jessica Ardron. (Gold Star families are those who have experienced the "loss of an immediate family member as the result of ac- tive-duty military service." The ceremony concluded with Delgado delivering closing remarks that called on participants to remember their civic and patriotic duties and to always honor the profound sacrifices of our nation's veterans. This year's Keys for Life event was produced in partnership with Lead Sponsor Guardian Asset Management, Partners Freedom Mortgage and Prop- erty Masters, and Non-Profit Partner the Military Warriors Support Foundation. FSC is a long-running mortgage conference that attracts leading subject matter experts, exhibitors, and thou- sands of professionals representing mortgage servicers, lenders, federal government agencies, financial services law firms, service providers, investors, and real estate organizations from across the nation, working towards the common goal of a stronger and more united mortgage industry. Ed Delgado, Chairman Emeritus of the Five Star Institute, speaks at the KFL ceremony. "Today, we gather to honor a debt that can never be fully repaid and to recognize the brave men and women who have stood as guardians of de- mocracy throughout our nation's history. This great country, with all its complexities and contradictions, is built upon a simple and yet profound idea: that we, the people, have the right to govern ourselves. It's an idea that has been challenged, both from within and beyond our borders. And yet, our country has always endured. It endures because of the unwavering commitment of the men and women of our military. They have answered the call to service, leaving behind their homes, their families, and their comforts—to stand on the front lines of liberty. From the early days on the battle fields of Valley Forge to the sands of the Middle East, they have defended our right to vote, our right to speak our minds, and our right to live in a nation without fear. Their sacrifice is not an abstract concept; it is a living, breathing reality. It's the empty chair at a family dinner, the distant phone call from a loved one, or the quiet resolve in the eyes of a soldier. It's a reminder that the freedoms we enjoy, were not given to us freely, but were earned through selflessness, service and sacrifice. Let us not ever take these gifts for granted. Rather, let's honor military service not just with our words, but with our actions. Let's participate in our democracy, engage in civil discourse, and work together to build a more perfect union. Above all, let us strive to be worthy of the sacrifices that have made on our behalf. Thank you, to all who have served our great nation. Your courage, your commitment are the bedrock of our democracy and the shield that protects our freedom. May God bless you, and God bless the United States of America."