Medal of Honor Recipients Honor Heroes at NYSE Closing Ceremony and Event

Medal of Honor Recipients Shine Bright at the NYSE

On March 6, 2025, over 20 Medal of Honor Recipients gathered at the iconic New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) to ring the Closing Bell, marking a momentous occasion that celebrated their dedication and service to the nation. The event was part of The Circle of Honor Dinner, which recognized individuals who have made significant contributions to America and emphasized the importance of civic responsibility and patriotism.

Honoring a Legacy of Service

The Medal of Honor Foundation presented the Circle of Honor Award to the NYSE in recognition of its steadfast support for Medal of Honor Recipients and its commitment to promoting the values these individuals embody. For more than 230 years, the NYSE has consistently honored those who serve the nation, supporting veteran-owned businesses and organizing events that celebrate military personnel. This long-standing tradition highlights the importance of remembering and uplifting the sacrifices made by service members.

"The dedication of the NYSE to the memory and legacy of our nation's heroes is profound," said Britt Slabinski, President of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. "Ringing the NYSE bell is a symbol of our connection to the values of courage and sacrifice that the Medal of Honor represents."

Recognizing Community Leaders

The medalists also took the opportunity to award Heather Tornes, an Educational Instructor from Caledonia High School in Michigan, with this year’s Distinguished Citizen Award. Tornes was honored for her unwavering commitment to youth development, as she endeavors to instill a sense of gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by military personnel in her students. "It’s crucial to pass on this understanding to our youth, so they appreciate the freedoms they enjoy today," Tornes stated passionately.

A Call to Action

During their time in New York City, the Medal of Honor Recipients engaged with audiences to address the growing decline in civic education. The message shared was clear: strengthening citizenship and encouraging civic responsibility is essential for the future of the nation.

"We must remember that it is our duty as citizens to foster a culture of gratitude and respect for those who serve," Slabinski urged.

As part of this initiative, the event marked the beginning of a series of commemorative activities throughout March, leading up to Medal of Honor Day celebrated on the 25th. These activities span across the nation, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and service.

In the spirit of remembrance, the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, will officially open to the public on March 25, further honoring the legacy of the Medal of Honor and the heroes who wear it. The month will also see wreath-laying ceremonies dedicated to the brave souls commemorated at various historic locations, including Arlington National Cemetery and other prestigious Memorial sites.

About the Medal of Honor Foundation

The Medal of Honor Foundation operates as a charitable organization dedicated to advancing the mission of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. Through various educational programs based on the core values championed by the Medal of Honor - courage, commitment, citizenship, integrity, sacrifice, and patriotism - the foundation aims to instill these principles within youth and communities across the United States.

For more information about the Medal of Honor Foundation and its initiatives, visit cmohs.org.