During halftime of the University of Michigan-Purdue University football game on Nov. 1 in Ann Arbor, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society will officially announce that Detroit will host its 2026 Medal of Honor Convention, marking the first time this gathering of America’s most decorated heroes comes to the Motor City.
The convention will take place Sept. 30-Oct. 3, 2026, culminating with a black-tie Patriots Award Gala at the MotorCity Casino Hotel on Oct. 3.
The Medal of Honor, awarded by the President in the name of Congress, is the nation’s highest recognition for military valor. Since its inception in 1861 by President Abraham Lincoln, fewer than 3,600 service members have received the medal, with only 61 recipients still living today including Jim McCloughan, a Michigan native and Vietnam combat medic. He is credited with saving 11 lives and was awarded several awards for his valor, including two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars.
“It was a tremendous honor to serve my country, as so many others have done, to preserve our freedoms and liberties,” says McCloughan. “I and others are greatly looking forward to bringing this wonderful tradition to the city of Detroit and the surrounding communities.”
Detroit has a rich history of exceptional service in wartime; During World War II the city became known as the Arsenal of Democracy as the American auto industry converted factories to produce vast quantities of war material — including airplanes and tanks — to aid greatly in the allied war effort.
“By selecting Detroit as the 2026 host city, we have the opportunity once again to stand in unified support of those who have served our country so valiantly,” says Mayor Mike Duggan.
Each year, the convention rotates to a new host city, bringing with it a week of educational outreach, community impact, and character development programs. Medal of Honor recipients will connect with local students, veterans, civil servants, and families across metro Detroit to share stories of courage, honor, sacrifice, integrity, patriotism, and citizenship.
The event also will raise proceeds for veteran organizations and youth groups in Michigan, to be administered through the nonprofit Detroit Public Safety Foundation.
“We’re thrilled to bring the convention to Detroit, a city with deep roots in both our nation’s history and commitment to service,” says Chad Graham, executive director of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
“Hosting this convention is about honoring heroes as well as educating our youth, inspiring service, and showcasing Detroit’s leadership on a national stage,” says Adrian Kozakov, Congressional Medal of Honor Society Detroit committee member.
“The DPSF is honored to play a role in bringing this prestigious event to Detroit,” says Patti Kukula, executive director of the Detroit Public Safety Foundation, the convention’s official nonprofit partner.
The Detroit 2026 Medal of Honor Convention provides sponsorship opportunities for companies, organizations, and individuals to align with the values of courage, sacrifice, and service. Sponsorships directly support educational programs, youth initiatives, and large-scale public events that honor Medal of Honor Recipients and extend their legacy into communities.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, event details, and educational outreach initiatives, please visit medalofhonordetroit.com or info@medalofhonordetroit.com.
