The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center has announced that its 2026 Patriots Ball will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 6, at 6 p.m. at Erlanger Park. This marks a shift from the organization’s previous annual event, the Celebration of Valor luncheon, to a more formal evening gathering designed to continue its mission of honoring and preserving the legacy of Medal of Honor recipients.

Transition to Evening Event

The event represents a new direction for the Heritage Center, with organizers emphasizing that the Patriots Ball will carry forward the same meaningful impact and memorable experiences that have characterized past luncheons. The venue change to Erlanger Park is part of a broader effort to enhance the experience for attendees, sponsors, students, and educators who have participated in previous events.

The Heritage Center has stated that the event will continue to focus on raising funds to support its mission of preserving, honoring, and sharing the legacy of the Medal of Honor. Proceeds will be used to maintain and expand the center’s exhibits and educational programs, which aim to inspire future generations by highlighting the stories of Medal of Honor recipients.

Keynote Speaker: Medal of Honor Recipient David Bellavia

The 2026 Patriots Ball will feature Medal of Honor recipient David Bellavia as the keynote speaker. Bellavia is the first and only living Iraq veteran to receive the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor in the United States. He was awarded the honor on June 25, 2019, at the White House, in the presence of his family and every living member of his Task Force.

Bellavia received the Medal of Honor for his actions on Nov. 10, 2004, during the Second Battle of Fallujah, Iraq, as part of Operation Phantom Fury. His decisive and heroic actions during the intense house-to-house combat directly saved the lives of his unit members, according to the Heritage Center.

“David Bellavia’s story is one of extraordinary gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty,” said officials with the Heritage Center. “His presence at the 2026 Patriots Ball will bring a powerful and personal perspective to the event.”

Impact on Education and Character Development

Proceeds from the event will directly fund the Heritage Center’s operations, including its Character Education programs. These programs use immersive, interactive exhibits and educational initiatives to teach 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 handle their own challenges,” said officials. The center’s educational programs are designed to reach students and educators across the country, using the stories of Medal of Honor recipients to support a deeper understanding of leadership, courage, and service.

The Heritage Center has emphasized that the Patriots Ball is not only a fundraising event but also a platform for education and reflection. It aims to bring together individuals who share a common respect for the sacrifices made by Medal of Honor recipients and to inspire others to carry forward their legacy.

According to the Heritage Center, the event will be held at Erlanger Park on Oct. 6, and more details about the event, including registration and ticket information, will be available on the center’s website.