Chuck Alsobrook, Hamilton County Veteran Service Officer, highlighted the importance of preserving the stories of service and ensuring future generations understand the value of selfless sacrifice at the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center Bricks of Honor Dedication Ceremony.
The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center honored veterans, active-duty service members, loved ones and companies in our community today during its Bricks of Honor Dedication Ceremony, held on the plaza outside the Heritage Center in downtown Chattanooga.
Community members gathered to celebrate the newest additions to the Bricks of Honor Plaza, which features engraved bricks permanently installed to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of those honored. The ceremony included remarks from Chuck Alsobrook, Hamilton County Veteran Service Officer, who highlighted the importance of preserving the stories of service and ensuring future generations understand the value of selfless sacrifice.
“The Bricks of Honor program ensures that the sacrifices of our service members are never forgotten,” said Mr. Alsobrook. “Every brick represents a life dedicated to something greater than oneself. For the families and friends of those honored here today, this ceremony is not only a public acknowledgment of service, but also a personal moment of remembrance and pride. These names will be part of this sacred space forever.”
Kenny Turpen, director of development at the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, emphasized the emotional and historical significance of the ceremony. He said, “Every name etched into our plaza represents a story of courage, commitment, and sacrifice. We are honored to help preserve those stories and give families a place to reflect and remember for generations to come.”
The next Bricks of Honor Dedication Ceremony will be held around Veterans’ Day. The deadline to order bricks for that ceremony is Sept. 12. Proceeds from each brick support the Center’s mission to preserve and share the heroic stories of Medal of Honor Recipients through exhibits, educational programs, and outreach. For more information or to purchase a brick, visit www.mohhc.org/bricks.