Congressional Medal of Honor Society
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Patriotism | Living a Core Value of the Medal of Honor
One of the six core values embodied in the Medal of Honor, patriotism is a sense of pride and a feeling of love or devotion towards one’s country. This is a powerful trait that humbles and unites all citizens of our great nation.
Having an emotional attachment to your homeland is natural, but incorporating patriotism in every aspect of your life takes dedication and effort. Here are some simple ways you can perpetuate the legacy of the Medal of Honor by living the core value of patriotism every day.
Support National Parks
Enjoy the natural splendor of your country by visiting and supporting national parks. The ability to travel and explore the riches of your homeland is one of the many freedoms provided to all Americans. Take pride in this freedom and share the experience with your family and friends. Supporting national parks also helps preserve this precious resource for the next generations of young patriots to celebrate over many years to come.
Celebrate Your Community
Patriotism isn’t just an individual emotion, it can also be collective. Take the time to engage with your friends and neighbors to create a sense of community. “E Pluribus Unum” is the motto emblazoned on the Great Seal of the United States of America. It means “one out of many” and symbolizes the union of many different people to form one national community. Embrace the diversity of your neighbors and build relationships that focus on togetherness. Being an active part of your community represents one of the founding principles of our nation and is one of the greatest acts of patriotism you can live daily.
Fly the Flag of the United States of America
Flying your nation’s flag is one of the most traditional symbolic acts of patriotism. Following the U.S. Flag Code for keeping and displaying the flag demonstrates patriotism by extending the pride and respect you feel for your country to its flag. Click here to learn how to appropriately display our nation’s flag.
Thank a Veteran or Active Member of the Armed Services
Perhaps the most impactful gesture of patriotism is to thank those who protect your freedom. These courageous men and women risk their lives in service to you and all citizens of our nation. By thanking those who serve, you also show appreciation for the freedoms that give their sacrifice such sacred value. This act does not have to be literal. You can say “thank you” without speaking by listening to their stories, living the values they fought to protect, and encouraging others to do do the same.
Join us in preserving the legacy of the Medal of Honor and honoring our nation’s heroes by making a direct impact on the work of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. The Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the sole mission to support the work of the Society. You can also keep up with our upcoming events, special announcements, and partner/Recipient highlights by joining our monthly newsletter.