Fayetteville stand offers silent fireworks for veterans with PTSD

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Pyro Penny in Fayetteville is working to bring fireworks back to veterans.

On July 4, the stand is selling a new kind of fireworks called “Silent Salute.” The explosives give off a similar experience as regular fireworks while significantly more quiet.

For veterans living with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), this means that they can have another chance to enjoy the holiday that celebrates the independence they fought for.

Jeff Hill served four years in the Navy before being honorably discharged. He now serves as the commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Springdale. He says the post sees veterans struggle with PTSD frequently, with some serving for as long as 26 years.

“I have some that that severely struggle. And we’ve had some, unfortunately, that committed suicide. They just couldn’t deal with it,” said Hill.

According to the American Addiction Centers, 6,146 veterans died by suicide in 2020.

Hill says the Fourth of July can be a hard time for vets who live with PTSD, and while medication is available, it can only do so much.

“Usually veterans, when they go to a firework show, they expect it, but when they’re sitting at home and a big boom goes off outside, it triggers it,” said Hill.

Carissa Haneline with Pyro Penny says veterans deserve to participate in the holiday, and they feel honored to carry Silent Salute.

“It’s a privilege. It’s the Fourth of July, and we feel as if the veterans should be able to celebrate and watch the fireworks with us. As you know, they’re the reason we’re celebrating to begin with,” said Haneline.

The Pyro Penny tent is currently the only known stand in Arkansas that sells Silent Salute, with locations in Fayetteville, Pea Ridge, Nashville, and the Hiwasse Saddle Club.

Hill says he feels like this gives veterans another chance to enjoy the holiday that celebrates the independence they fought for.

“That would allow veterans to share fireworks with their grandkids or with their kids, they can [now] go outside and light them themselves,” said Hill.

Hill’s advice for veterans struggling with PTSD is to reach out and not face it alone.

“Don’t go through it alone. That’s what veterans need to understand. Don’t go through this alone… reach out to your local VFW and they can help you. And if they can’t help you, you can call me,” said Hill.

Veterans of Foreign Wars is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Those interested in helping veterans are encouraged to donate by visiting the VFW website .

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