FISHER HOUSE
SALUTES
Military service members, veterans, and their families are supported by countless organizations that acknowledge their sacrifices. We feature a top-tier organization each issue. Story by Michelle Baldanza
WE SALUTE: The Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s Character Development Program For both parents and teachers in isolation, finding resources to inspire children has been more challenging than ever. One organization, The Congressional Medal of Honor Society, is made up of members who not only have inspiring stories but are also committed to sharing them to help others. In 2009, the society created the Character Development Program to inspire young minds to become active members of their communities. According to the CDP Mission Statement, the Character Development Program teaches the values represented in the Medal of Honor — Courage, Commitment, Integrity, Sacrifice, Citizenship, and Patriotism — to the young people of the United States. Normally, the series of lessons might include visits from Medal of Honor recipients, but because of COVID-19, the program had to adjust. It isn’t surprising that this society wouldn’t let anything stop them from accomplishing their mission. In order to help educators and families teach from home, the society doubled their online forum to twice a month and increased their social media presence so
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THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 11 • ISSUE 2 • 2020
that they could reach America’s youth where they are learning — even if at home. Army Captain, Medal of Honor Recipient, and former Fisher House guest Florent “Flo” Groberg was the special guest at the CDP’s online webinar on April 29, 2020. The response was incredible. More than 475 people participated in the dialogue and a recording was distributed to educators across the country for further use. “This is a wonderful program that I have enjoyed sharing with my students.” said Candice Palacios, a teacher at Meadowlark School in Action, California. “As a military wife, it is especially meaningful to me to be able to share such important character qualities with my class.” The CDP series of lessons was developed by teachers and can be taught by anyone, anywhere. They are available at no cost. More information about this program and the Congressional Medal of Honor Society can be found at www.themedalofhonor.com.
