More than 20 Medal of Honor Recipients rang the Closing Bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) yesterday and hosted The Circle of Honor Dinner to honor those who have made profound contributions to our Nation and way of life.
The Medal of Honor Foundation proudly recognized the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) with the Circle of Honor Award, celebrating its unwavering commitment to Medal of Honor Recipients and their mission. This powerful collaboration has helped preserve the legacy of the Medal of Honor, inspired Americans to live by its values, and supported Recipients as they connect with communities nationwide.
The NYSE’s dedication to our nation’s heroes is more than symbolic—it’s a legacy. For over 230 years, the organization has stood by those who serve, fostering veteran-owned businesses, hosting veteran and active-duty military events and celebrations, and playing a pivotal role in Veterans Day observances. This support has also led to an extraordinary tradition—Medal of Honor Recipients ringing the iconic NYSE opening or closing bell more than 20 times.
With a history built on service, sacrifice, and leadership, the NYSE continues to set the gold standard in championing our nation’s veterans.
The Recipients also recognized Heather Tornes, Educational Instructor, Caledonia High School, Caledonia, Michigan, as this year’s Distinguished Citizen Award recipient, for her exceptional commitment to youth development and education while embodying the core values and principles of the Medal of Honor. “While teaching academic knowledge is essential for the growth of our youth, it is equally important to teach young people about the service and sacrifice of our military men and women. This focus is vital to fostering a sense of gratitude and respect for the freedoms we enjoy,” said Tornes.
Medal of Honor recipients, through their organization the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, addressed audiences in New York City to discuss the decline in civics, citizenship, and patriotism.
“Our time in New York City has been a powerful reminder that the future of America is in our hands. We came here to issue a call to action, it’s up to all of us to step up, strengthen citizenship, reinvigorate civic responsibility, and ignite patriotism in our communities. The NYSE’s unwavering support sets the example, but real change happens when we take action. We all hold the keys to unlocking a stronger, united America,” said Britt Slabinski, President, Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
These activities officially kicked off a series of events being held throughout the month, culminating on Medal of Honor Day, March 25. During March, Medal of Honor Recipients will participate in community outreach activities and events nationwide. The highly anticipated National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas will open to the public officially on March 25. Other commemorations will include wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, the Medal of Honor Memorial in Indianapolis, IN, the Medal of Honor Memorial in Riverside, CA, and the Medal of Honor Museum on the U.S.S. Yorktown in Mount Pleasant, SC.
