Son of a Veteran™
You don’t have to be a Son of a Veteran to support veterans. Every purchase helps support veterans’ families.
As a Son of a WWII Veteran, I wanted to share in recognizing all family members of Veterans of the United States of America.
New Apparel and Accessories are Here!
Coming Soon! T-Shirts - All Branches - All Family Versions!
Now! T-Shirts - Son-Daughter-Mother-Father-Huband-Wife-Brother-Sister
Now! - Limited Edition T-Shirts - Memorial Day - D-Day - 4th of July - Veterans Day
Every design. Every product. If you want a specific design on a hat, shirt, hoodie, or mug — we’ll make it.
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Our trademark image represents the American veteran. The eagle symbolizes the veteran himself — strong, courageous, and standing in front of the flag because he defends our country and all Americans. The flag behind the eagle represents the nation and the people the veteran protects. The branch version held in the eagle’s claws represents the veteran’s service and identity, showing pride in the branch where he served. “Son of a Veteran” below the main image represents the family who carries the legacy and honors the sacrifice. The family stands behind the veteran, continuing his story and honoring his service. Any banners or wording above the image are reserved for special days and events that honor our nation, our veterans, and their families. These special versions celebrate occasions such as Veterans Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, and other events that pay tribute to the country and those who served.
Honoring the WWII Service of John Joseph Mannix
John Joseph Mannix enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve in September 1942, stepping into a world at war and joining one of the most dangerous and essential branches of the Navy: the minesweeping forces. He was assigned to the U.S.S. YMS‑78, a small wooden minesweeper whose mission was to clear the way for Allied landings across Europe. These ships went first into hostile waters, often under fire, so that larger fleets and thousands of troops could safely follow.
John served aboard YMS‑78 through four major Mediterranean campaigns: Sicily, Salerno, Anzio–Nettuno, and Southern France. Each operation demanded precision, courage, and steady resolve. Minesweeping crews worked within yards of live minefields while facing artillery, aircraft, and the constant threat of underwater explosions. Few sailors experienced so many invasions on the same ship. Fewer still remained with their vessel from her early days to her final moment under the American flag.
In 1944, as the war shifted, YMS‑78 was selected for transfer to the Free French Naval Forces. John helped train the incoming French crew and remained aboard until the day the ship was officially decommissioned and handed over.
His service earned multiple campaign stars and stands as a testament to quiet bravery — the kind that clears the path for others and changes the course of history without seeking recognition.
This preserves his story, honors his sacrifice, and keeps his legacy alive for future generations.
Wounded Warrior Project — $0 donated to date (updated quarterly)
Fisher House Foundation — $0 donated to date (updated quarterly)
Tunnel to Towers Foundation — $0 donated to date (updated quarterly)
Gary Sinise Foundation — $0 donated to date (updated quarterly)
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) — $0 donated to date (updated quarterly)
Semper Fi & America’s Fund — $0 donated to date (updated quarterly)
Every three months, we update the total amount donated to each organization so you can see exactly how your purchase helps veteran families.