Chattanooga hosts the 2025 Patriot Award Gala
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Tonight, Chattanooga hosted one of the nation’s most prestigious celebrations of service and sacrifice.
The 2025 Patriot Award Gala brought together Medal of Honor recipients, military leaders, and community members for an evening dedicated to honoring those who have gone above and beyond in service to others.
Award-winning country music singer, songwriter, and philanthropist John Rich helped open the night with a heartfelt message about gratitude and pride in our country.
“If you’re an American citizen, every single morning when you wake up, you should look out your window and thank the good Lord above that you live here.”
Florent Groberg, a Medal of Honor recipient, reflected on the deep sense of connection he feels with the Chattanooga community and its patriotism.
“It’s also probably the most important part. We get to connect with our community. Chattanooga is excellent. It all started from the bar, right? So it’s got a lot of history. The people are amazing, and the people understand what being American really is out here.”
Another Medal of Honor recipient, Will Swenson, spoke about the impact the event has on younger generations who attend and learn from the heroes being honored.
“One of the things that really resonated with me was not necessarily the museum, which is fabulous. It was the fact that there were a hundred school children getting to see the history, getting to hear the stories, and getting to meet a recipient. And in that, they got to see again that this is a living embodiment of what this country is. There’s actually something tangible, physical. It’s not a museum. These are ever-evolving things that they too can be a part of.”
Awards were presented to individuals who have made an impact in national security, philanthropy, journalism, and civic engagement, along with a special recognition for ongoing support of veterans and their families.
Former U.S. Secretary of Defense Dr. Robert M. Gates reflected on the weight of leadership and the responsibility of service.
“And every day I was Secretary, we were at war in Iraq and Afghanistan. Everyone who wore an American uniform in those two countries was there because I sent them. Those who were wounded and who were killed were in harm’s way because I sent them there. Service men and recipients mostly receive the recognition not because they turned the tide of a battle, but because they put their own lives at risk. And to be recognized by these warriors who put everything at risk is very humbling.”
The Patriot Award Gala served not only as a night of celebration, but as a powerful reminder of what strengthens and unites this nation, the courage, character, and sacrifice of those who serve.
