Join the Mission Through Your Financial Support and by Living the Medal of Honor Values

Posted In: Blog Posts | November 28, 2022

*Medal of Honor Recipient Florent Groberg greets a young Scout.*

The Congressional Medal of Honor Society and its members–the 65 living Medal of Honor Recipients–believe that the character of our nation is built on values they hold dear. These are values around which we can unify.

We invite you to join us.

DONATE NOW to support this work through the Medal of Honor Foundation.

Medal of Honor Recipients are viewed as leaders because of the selfless acts of valor and service each carried out on behalf of others while in the military; however, they are quick to point out that one does not have to wear a uniform to be leaders in their communities.

Across the nation, there are leaders in our communities who live the values of the Medal of Honor each day: Courage; Sacrifice; Citizenship; Integrity; Commitment; and Patriotism.

The Congressional Medal of Honor Society offers a platform to unify efforts to bring these values to the forefront of public awareness–in classrooms, conference rooms, museums, and communities across the country. We do this through our proprietary education, preservation, outreach and citizen awards programs.

We rely on philanthropy to fund this vital work, and your tax-deductible gift will help Medal of Honor Recipients continue their service by extending their reach and deepening their impact across the country. You can make a gift today and be a leader by helping to share the essential Medal of Honor values.

Courage

Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the strength to face your fears. It takes courage to do the right thing when the wrong thing would be easier. It takes courage to embrace your fears and refuse to back down. It takes courage to stand alone for what you believe in. The next time you are faced with a difficult decision, first know that it’s ok to be afraid, and then choose courage in spite of it.

Sacrifice

Sacrifice is the act of putting the needs of others above your own. While many military service members display the ultimate act of sacrifice by laying down their lives for our country, we know that there are opportunities for selflessness in our everyday lives. One way you can practice sacrifice is by detaching yourself from your own self-interests when engaging with others. If you see someone in need, stop and see if there’s anything you can do to help, even if it’s not convenient for you. The smallest sacrifices add up to make a big difference and contribute to the common good.

Patriotism

Patriotism is offering devoted loyalty and support to your nation. It is something you feel in your heart and demonstrate in your actions. Patriotism has no political affiliation, and it is far more than a display of proper flag etiquette. To practice patriotism, first, consider your country’s freedoms and values, and then place them above your personal preferences. Demonstrate those values that make our nation great and set the example for others.

Citizenship

Citizenship means showing loyalty, compassion, involvement, and respect in your community, and assuming personal responsibility in your role as a United States citizen. One of the best ways to do this is by volunteering your time to serve in your community in some capacity. Try finding a nonprofit in your area whose mission moves you and lend a hand in the New Year.

Integrity

To display integrity is to practice honesty, ethics, and honor, even when no one is watching. The first step here is to determine what integrity looks like in your own life and then develop a personal code of conduct that demands consistent ethical standards for your behavior. This may stem from your religion, family tradition, or from some other formative experience. Not only does this value shape you into the best version of yourself, but you will find yourself building rapport, admiration, and trust from others as you display honorable character.

Commitment

Commitment is following through on your promises, no matter what. This value is two-fold. Don’t agree to take on obligations that you don’t intend to follow through with. On the other hand, once you have given your word to show up or take action, take ownership and stay true to your word.

Join us in perpetuating the legacy of the Medal of Honor and honoring our nation’s heroes by making a direct impact on the work of Medal of Honor Recipients. The Medal of Honor Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the sole mission of supporting the work of the Medal of Honor Recipients through its membership organization–the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.

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