On Wednesday, July 14th, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society had the opportunity to celebrate our Citizen Honors Service Award Honorees for 2020 & 2021 with an in-person ceremony. 

Held at the Riviera Theater in Charleston, South Carolina, this event gave Medal of Honor Recipients the chance to formally recognize five individuals and two organizations for their continued service to their communities. 

The Citizen Honors Service Award recognizes those who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to serving others through charitable works. We invite you to read the honorees’ incredible stories of service below. 

Michael Jernigan (2020 – Service Act Award)

On March 22, 2004, Michael Jernigan lost both his eyes while serving in Iraq. As a result, he began his mission of improving the lives of other blind and impaired vets. He co-founded “Paws for Patriots”, which provides guide dogs and service animals to veterans. For his incredible service to others, he was selected for the Service Act Award. 

Zachary Brooks (2020 – Youth Service Award)

At just nine years old, Zachary Brooks started raising awareness for autism on behalf of his twin brother, Jack. He founded “Artfully Abled,” an art event showcasing the abilities of those with developmental disabilities. For his advocacy and service to others, he was selected for the Youth Service Award.  

Women Veteran Social Justice Network (2020 – Community Service Award)

Founded in the early 2000s as a response to the lack of resources for female veterans, the Women Veteran Social Justice Network was established. The organization works to identify, connect, and empower women veterans through professional and personal connections. The organization was selected to receive the Community Service Award for its impact and dedication to the lives of women who have bravely served our country. 

Aidan Reilly and James Kanoff of FarmLink (2021 – Service Act Award)

The FarmLink Project, started by Aiden Reilly and James Kanoff, was created at the start of the pandemic as an effort to prevent food waste. Their company connects farmers with a surplus of products to communities in need. For their much-needed efforts, they were presented the Service Act Award. 

Charles “Charlie” Austin (2021 – Youth Service Award)

Charles Austin was awarded the Youth Service Award for his selfless service in donating time and money to help fund and create The Warrior Program. This incredible program provides virtual training for Special Olympics Maine. 

Gary Sinise Foundation ( 2021 – Community Service Award)

The Gary Sinise Foundation was awarded the Community Service Award for its efforts in serving our nation by honoring veterans, defenders, first responders, and their families. The organization also does important work to help support those in need. Its unique programs help educate, inspire, and strengthen communities. 

To learn more about the Citizen Honor Awardees, we invite you to view their videos here. 

To stay up-to-date on upcoming events, special announcements, and stories of Medal of Honor Recipients, sign up to receive our monthly newsletter.