Patriots Ball Will Honor Medal of Honor Recipient
The Medal of Honor Heritage Center will host the annual fundraiser at Erlanger Park on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The 2026 Patriots Ball will feature guest speaker David Bellavia, the only living Iraq War Medal of Honor recipient. The event will take place on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Erlanger Park in Chattanooga to raise funds for the center's mission.
Why it matters
Proceeds from the fundraiser directly support the Medal of Honor Heritage Center and its mission of sharing the legacy of recipients. The event provides a platform to honor those who have received the nation's highest military decoration.
David Bellavia is the only living Medal of Honor recipient from the Iraq War, an award earned for his actions in the Battle of Fallujah where he removed six insurgents while saving his squad.
The players
David Bellavia
He is the only living recipient of the Medal of Honor from the Iraq War and will serve as the guest speaker for the Patriots Ball.
Medal of Honor Heritage Center
This institution is dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of those who have received the Medal of Honor.
The details
The event moves to Erlanger Park this year, highlighting the legacy of recipients like Bellavia, who also appeared at Thrasher Elementary School. Bellavia was awarded the Medal of Honor for clearing a three-story building during his service 22 years ago.
Timeline
Tuesday, October 13, 2026: The Patriots Ball takes place at Erlanger Park.
Week of October 19, 2026: Coverage of the event will air on Price of Freedom.
Market Landscape
This fundraiser follows the established pattern of major community galas supporting the Medal of Honor Heritage Center's mission. The event strengthens the center's position by aligning its public profile with recognized national heroes.
The relocation of the Patriots Ball to Erlanger Park may affect local traffic or venue access for residents in the immediate vicinity during the event. Those interested in supporting the mission of the heritage center can participate by attending or donating to the fundraiser.
The takeaway
The Patriots Ball continues to serve as a vital link between the public and the historical legacy of Medal of Honor recipients. Community members can learn more about these efforts by monitoring the upcoming television coverage scheduled for later in October.
What happens next
Additional coverage of the event is scheduled to air during the week of October 19, 2026, on the program Price of Freedom.
Further reading
For more information on local initiatives, visit Chattanooga Philanthropy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WTVC.
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