The Charles Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center

Mission: To memorialize the history of our nation’s highest military award for valor and educate the next generation of Americans about the six character traits associated with the gallantry of Medal recipients.

The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, located in Chattanooga, Tennessee—the Birthplace of the Medal of Honor—is dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of our nation’s highest military award for valor. From the first Medals of Honor awarded in 1863 to Private Jacob Parrott and the Andrews’ Raiders, to the present day, the Heritage Center serves as a powerful testament to the courage, sacrifice, and commitment of over 3,500 recipients. Officially opened on February 22, 2020, the 19,000-square-foot facility offers an immersive journey through history, honoring these extraordinary individuals while inspiring future generations to embody the six core character traits of Medal of Honor recipients: Patriotism, Citizenship, Courage, Integrity, Sacrifice, and Commitment.

The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center connects visitors with the inspiring stories of Medal of Honor recipients through:

• Immersive Exhibits: Our state-of-the-art exhibits use life-sized displays, innovative technologies, and multimedia storytelling to bring the heroics of Medal of Honor recipients to life.
• Educational Programs: We teach future generations about the six character traits exemplified by Medal recipients—Patriotism, Citizenship, Courage, Integrity, Sacrifice, and Commitment—instilling these values in young Americans.
• Historical Preservation: As the official home of Medal of Honor heritage, the center memorializes the award’s origins in Chattanooga during the Civil War and ensures the enduring legacy of the Medal and its recipients.
• Community Engagement: Through partnerships with veterans, educators, and local leaders, we promote awareness of the Medal of Honor’s history and its relevance to modern values and leadership.

The Heritage Center is more than a museum; it is a tribute to the extraordinary heroism of ordinary individuals and a beacon of inspiration for all who visit.