Annual Courage Awards Dinner Celebrates the Triumphs of Wounded Warriors

Honoring Heroes: The Annual Courage Awards Dinner

On September 10, 2025, the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) held its annual Courage Awards & Benefit Dinner at a remarkable venue in Washington, D.C., presented by Goldman Sachs. This prestigious event brought together a wide array of veterans, corporate partners, esteemed officials, advocates, and supporters, all gathering to recognize the meaningful contributions of honorees who are making a positive impact on the lives of wounded warriors and their families.

Once again, the evening was skillfully hosted by Robert Griffin III, a Heisman Trophy winner and former Pro Bowl quarterback, marking his third year in this capacity. Griffin set the tone for the evening with his inspiring remarks about the courage and resilience displayed by the honorees.

WWP's CEO, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Walt Piatt, shared powerful words highlighting the significance of the event. “This is what a grateful nation looks like – communities honoring those who’ve sacrificed so much. Tonight’s honorees remind us why we must continue to keep the promise and do whatever we can to bring every warrior fully home – mind, body, and soul.”

The event recognized four notable recipients for their exceptional dedication and service:

1. Courage Award – Deron Santiny

Deron Santiny, a veteran who was gravely injured in 2005 during his deployment in Baghdad, received the Courage Award. After his convoy was hit by an improvised explosive device (IED), he endured extensive recovery. Accepting support from WWP transformed his life, was he subsequently committed himself to helping fellow warriors. Santiny now plays an influential role as a peer leader and mentor, representing the Military Order of the Purple Heart and leading WWP’s largest peer support group in Louisiana.

2. Service Award – Tammy Haggerty

Tammy Haggerty, a prominent business owner from Canton, Michigan, was honored with the Service Award for her unwavering support and advocacy for veterans. As committee chair for the