Medal of Honor Day March 25th, 2026

On March 25, 2026, more than 80 veterans, family members, and community supporters gathered at Club Continental in Orange Park to observe National Medal of Honor Day, a time set aside to reflect on the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of our nation’s highest-decorated service members.

The morning began with a warm and welcoming atmosphere as attendees shared a full breakfast together, creating space for connection and reflection. Master of Ceremonies Jaime Quiñones, US Navy, retired opened the program by welcoming guests and setting the tone for a meaningful tribute. Chaplain Reese Edwards, US Air Force, retired followed with an invocation, offering words of gratitude and remembrance, and Former Commissioner Gayward Hendry, US Marine Corps, retired led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

A central moment of the program was a solemn tribute to Medal of Honor recipients. Jessica Polvikoski, US Army, retired President of Clay Veterans, Inc., honored their legacy through a reading of the 24 Medal of Honor recipients connected to the State of Florida. Each name served as a powerful reminder of the bravery, selflessness, and unwavering commitment demonstrated by these American heroes.

The program also featured a special presentation by guest speaker Eries Mentzer, US Air Force, retired who shared the stories of two remarkable veterans she had the privilege of supporting in their recognition.

Among them was Private Romay Catherine Davis, a member of the historic 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion—also known as the “Six Triple Eight.” In 2022, at the age of 102, her unit was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for their vital contributions during World War II. Sadly, Mrs. Davis passed away before the medal was produced, and LTC Mentzer accepted the honor on her behalf, ensuring her service and legacy were properly recognized.

The second veteran highlighted was James Capers, Jr., a Marine whose Medal of Honor recommendation had previously been downgraded. In a significant and long-awaited development, on March 26, 2026, the President signed into law H.R. 3377, authorizing the award of the Medal of Honor to James Capers, Jr. for his acts of valor during the Vietnam War. Now 88 years old, Mr. Capers hopes to receive the award in person—a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing valor, even decades later.

Joey Meininger and Randy Woodcock, both US Air Force, retired

also addressed attendees, speaking about the Clay Veterans Center and the meaningful ways it is currently serving veterans and their families throughout Clay County. Their remarks highlighted the importance of having a consistent, welcoming place where veterans can access resources, build connections, and remain engaged in their community.

As the program looked ahead, Jaime Quiñones closed with a call to action, encouraging members of the veteran community to participate in upcoming Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) meetings. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that veteran needs and resources are included in Clay County’s 5-Year CDBG Plan, an opportunity to strengthen long-term support and infrastructure for local veterans.

Chaplain Reese Edwards concluded the ceremony with a benediction, bringing the morning to a respectful and reflective close.

The Medal of Honor Day Breakfast served not only as a tribute to those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, but also as a reminder of the importance of preserving their stories and ensuring recognition is given where it is due. Events like this reinforce the mission of Clay Veterans, Inc, to connect veterans with resources, strengthen community support networks, and provide a welcoming place where veterans and their families can find connection, encouragement, and purpose.

As attendees departed, they carried with them a renewed sense of gratitude and a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made in defense of our nation and a shared responsibility to continue supporting those who have served.