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It’s one of the most iconic moments in American sports.
At approximately 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9, on the field at Gillette Stadium, players and cheerleaders participating in the annual Army-Navy football game walk up to the side of the losing team and sing the Academy Mother Song together. sing. School songs and songs. They then trudge across the field to the winner’s side and do the same.
Then, and only then, one will celebrate, and the other will depart in search of consolation in defeat.
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This moment, repeated every year, speaks volumes in a short period of time. It speaks of honor, tradition, compassion, civility and unity, values that unite those who play and those who support them.
A view of the logo on the field before the 123rd Army vs. Navy game played at Lincoln Financial Field on December 10, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Mark Goldman/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
It also echoes the ideals we once recognized as essential to the American experience: the rough-and-tumble reality of democracy in progress, tackling opponents, fighting, and scoring points, but with no end in sight. represents the ideal of coming together around a common vision of what really matters.
Of course, this moment is even more poignant. Because these young men and women will soon be commissioned as officers in the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. Some people perform heroic acts. Some may even risk their lives to make the ultimate sacrifice. Everyone serves.
As they perform their duties, they are supported by the values honed in the halls, classrooms, drill fields, and arenas of West Point and Annapolis. Just like steel sharpens steel.
But what about the rest of us who don’t wear uniforms and strive to be good citizens in a turbulent world? Are we still relevant?
Sometimes it feels like these traditional civic values have been replaced by a long debate that never seems to end. It is as if we have lost the ability to have respectful, civil conversations and engage with each other.
Thankfully, many Americans seem to recognize that this is not the way it should be. A survey conducted by Ipsos for the Medal of Honor Foundation earlier this year found that 71% of respondents believe society does not value values enough.
Similarly, 79% believe that strong values and character are important for all Americans, and a whopping 87% believe society would be a better place if we had stronger values. I agreed that it would be.
This study comes at a time when we are reminded of real-life examples of what happens when these values are put into practice. Paris Davis was an Army captain and green his beret near Bong Son, Republic of Vietnam, from June 17 to 18, 1965, when his unit was ambushed. Although he was seriously wounded, he returned to the battlefield many times, taking direct hits from artillery fire, evacuating other wounded, and pushing back the enemy.
Of course, this moment is even more poignant. Because these young men and women will soon be commissioned as officers in the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. Some people perform heroic acts. Some may even risk their lives to make the ultimate sacrifice. Everyone serves.
Davis was twice nominated for the Medal of Honor, and twice his documents went missing and supporters were told they were “lost.” But they didn’t give up until March 2023, when the President placed the Medal of Honor around their necks. His bravery in 1965 and decency afterward reminded us that America can and must remember its heroes.
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Most people will never face a life-or-death moment like Paris Davis. However, every day we are faced with situations in which we are forced to make choices. The choices big and small that define who we are.
By teaching the importance and meaning of these core values and providing examples of how to put them into practice, we can bring about positive change in the lives of families, communities, and nations.
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Values can be taught. This requires dedication and boldness. These are the same qualities that the young people at the Service School exhibit on Saturday and beyond.
The stakes for the country’s future are high and the timing could not be more important. Let’s get to work.
Thomas Mandel is president and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Leadership and Education Center, which provides leadership training centered around the Medal of Honor’s values.
