Karen Worcester's Thoughts On National Medal of Honor Day


Over the last several weeks, I’ve had the distinct honor to speak with some truly inspiring individuals. Most recently, on National Medal of Honor Day – this past Saturday, March 25 – we were guests at the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s Citizen Honors Awards held in Arlington, Va.

U.S. Army Col. Roger Donlon (retired), who is the first recipient of the Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War, and his amazing wife, Norma, hosted us and others as part of this special evening of celebrating regular people who have done and continue to do, extraordinary things. From the 17 year old Eagle Scout who raised $77,000+ for a veterans’ memorial in his small Minnesota town, to a devoted schoolteacher who stood in front of her students and a gunmen who entered her classroom, placing herself in danger to save innocent lives. The purpose of the awards is to “recognize Americans who reflect, through courage and selfless service, the values embodied in the Medal of Honor – courage, sacrifice, commitment, integrity, citizenship and patriotism.”

Earlier this month, I was given the opportunity to interview Tom Hudner III, son of Medal of Honor Recipient Tom Hudner Jr., and Jessica Knight, granddaughter of Naval Aviator Jesse Brown, who was killed in Korea. Their story was recently shared with the world as depicted in the movie “Devotion.” The same values came through in this discussion – the importance of family, integrity, service to country and community, and each other. These two families have remained committed to these values, and each other for 75 years. It is truly inspiring, and I hope you can take some time to listen to what they had to share.

Click here to listen now.

At nearly 90 years old, and battling Parkinson’s Disease as a result of Agent Orange exposure, Roger’s love of country and focus on what is most important in life is still crystal clear – family, faith, community, and service. Every time we speak, I feel my own convictions deepen and I swell with pride knowing that so many involved in the mission of Wreaths Across America have found a way to serve in their own communities.

Thank you for your continued support and participation in this important mission.

Remember - Honor - Teach

With gratitude,

Karen Worcester

Executive Director