Spotlights

FLAGS OF VALOR

Winchester, Virginia

Small businesses make up 99.9 percent of businesses across the United States, accounting for nearly 50 percent of all American employees. The small business community is comprised of our nation's hardest-working individuals. Their tireless dedication to running a small business does not go unnoticed.

During the month of June, America celebrates Flag Day and the adoption of the flag of the United States. This month, the Small Business Committee Celebrates Flags of Valor, co-founded by U.S. Air Force Veteran Joe Shamess and U.S. Army Veteran, Brian Steorts. Flags of Valor is the example of the American Dream. They started out as a two-person garage operation and have transformed into a successful, American-made, veteran-owned manufacturing small business known across the country for their craftsmanship. To fulfill their commitment to give back, Flags of Valor reports they have created more than 70 veteran jobs and raised $1,700,000 for veteran and first responder charities.

On June 8, 2022, Mr. Shamess testified before the Small Business Committee during a hearing titled: “Military to Main Street: Serving Veteran Entrepreneurship.” Mr. Shamess is also the Founder and General Partner of Flintlock Capital, an investment management company with a focus on investing in veteran led companies.

“In short, I am a veteran entrepreneur who has successfully transitioned from active-duty military to main street and I cherish the opportunity to serve our nation economically after serving in our active military…

“Many American small businesses are fighting a multi-front battle against inflation, a constrained supply chain and evolving workforce. Despite all of this, I find the American entrepreneur’s resilience an inspiration. That resilience and “can do” attitude are fundamental characteristics of our nation’s heritage of free enterprise. These traits are even more prevalent in the American veteran community. Many of the current economics problems are directly related to policy decisions that were too broad, too expensive, and made worse by the lingering affects of the global pandemic. Regardless, we see once again that the small business community is trying to adapt to survive and innovate to thrive.

“As we discuss the role veteran business owners play in our economy and explore ways to improve their transition, I challenge you to “first do no harm” and avoid policies that may erode the resilience of the entrepreneur by undermining the American spirit of free enterprise.” – Testimony by Joe Shamess

Click Here to View Mr. Shamess’ Introduction.

“I first had the privilege of meeting Mr. Shamess during National Veterans Small Business Week when I hosted a Veterans Small Business Showcase and Roundtable. He is a true patriot and a champion of American small business and manufacturing. His experience and passion for empowering veteran entrepreneurs is a true inspiration. Small business owners like Mr. Shamess are leading entrepreneurs that bring both honor and opportunity to their communities and the economy.” – Ranking Member Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO).

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