2026 Patriots Ball

We are excited to share some wonderful news. The Heritage Center has reimagined its annual fundraiser, transitioning from a luncheon to a distinctive evening event at a new venue—Erlanger Park. The 2026 Patriots Ball promises to be a unique dinner event, carrying forward the same meaningful impact and memorable experiences that students, educators, attendees, and sponsors have come to cherish at our past Celebration of Valor luncheons.

The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center proudly presents its Keynote Speaker for the 2026 Patriots Ball: Medal of Honor Recipient David G Bellavia.

He is the first and only living Iraq veteran to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor, which is our country’s highest military honor. He was awarded the Medal of Honor at the White House on June 25, 2019, surrounded by his family and every living member of his Task Force. He receive the Medal of Honor by distinguishing himself through extraordinary gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty on November 10, 2004, while serving as a squad leader in support of Operation Phantom Fury in Fallujah, Iraq. During intense house-to-house combat in the Second Battle of Fallujah, his decisive and heroic actions directly saved the lives of members of his unit.

Proceeds from the 2026 Patriots Ball make an immediate and lasting impact by directly funding the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center and its mission to preserve, honor and share the legacy of America’s highest military award for valor. Your support ensures that the stories of Medal of Honor Recipients—from the First Medals awarded in and around Chattanooga to those honored today—are not only remembered, but actively used to inspire future generations.

Contributions from this event also fuel the Heritage Center’s most essential work: Character Education. Through immersive, interactive exhibits and far-reaching educational programs, your support brings to life the six core values embodied by the Medal of Honor—Patriotism, Citizenship, Courage, Integrity, Sacrifice and Commitment. By living these values, many Americans—especially young people—gain the inspiration and guidance needed to navigate their own challenges.

Your generosity does more than honor the past—it inspires both children and adults to lead and help shape the communities of tomorrow. We hope you will make plans today and join us on October 6 at Erlanger Park for an incredible night of celebration where we will honor the legacy of one of our nation’s heroes and inspire others to uphold the values of Patriotism, Citizenship, Courage, Integrity, Sacrifice and Commitment.

Learn how you can get involved today by click the below Sponsorship button.