NASHVILLE, Tenn. – It’s being called a once in a lifetime opportunity: a chance to see close to 30 Medal of Honor recipients gathering this weekend in Nashville.
NewsChannel 5 found out the men who wear the highest military honor have now been sharing it with others.
A special parade was held at 8:30 a.m. Saturday along Broadway. It was called the “Heroes Honoring Heroes” parade, and it began at 10th Avenue.
At Stratford High, history class came alive Friday as two Medal of Honor recipients met students and staff and told them all how important this little piece of medal really is.
"We're going to try and show these students how honor and character are so integral parts of their lives," said Stratford Principal Mike Steele.
All over Nashville Friday, close to 30 Medal of Honor recipients were spreading a message of patriotism and honor at schools and town hall forums.
At First Baptist Nashville Friday, bibles were given to 3 Medal of honor winners who said they don't deserve all the attention.
"I think it's harder to wear than it was to earn because people expect you to be someone particularly special, and you're representing the military," said Medal of Honor recipient Thomas R. Norris.
Former Navy Seal Norris got his medal after rescuing two downed pilots, hiding in enemy waters to make the daring rescues.
Hershel “Woody” Williams took out a half dozen pillboxes, or bunkers, in World War II with flamethrowers after two buddies died saving his life.
"Where did I get that courage, that energy?” Williams said. “Why didn't they get me instead of the other two? I would ask God, and he says, ‘It wasn't your time. God wasn't ready for you, and the devil doesn't know what to do with you.’"
And Bennie Adkins remembered when he and another soldier were surrounded by North Vietnamese soldiers and tigers.
"Well, come to find out, the North Vietnamese soldiers were more afraid of the tigers than they were us, so they back off and we were on to camp," Adkins said.
The Medal of Honor recipients were given a special tribute Friday night at the Grand Ole Opry.
