Battleship Iowa & NROTC Troy High School
The day proved to be inspiring and successful from start to finish. The morning began with a thoughtful digital backdrop created by Mike Nguyen, setting the tone for a meaningful session with the Troy High School cadets. For an hour and a half, Gary and Suzanne Littrell spoke, shared stories, and engaged in a powerful Q&A with an exceptionally motivated group of students. Gary spoke about integrity, leadership and the importance of learning from mistakes. Suzanne shared a personal story of resilience after a stunt injury, emphasizing commitment and perseverance. The day ended with a historical ship tour.
The NJROTC instructors and Troy principal expressed deep appreciation for the program and invited the team back to speak not only to the 400 NJROTC cadets but to the entire student body of 1,200.
Article by Ana Medina
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A DAY OF LEADERSHIP, CHARACTER, AND CORE VALUES
Rich Schmitt Photography, 2025, www.richschmittphotography.com
The Youth Leadership Experience brought together an exceptional group of military leaders, special operations professionals, and Gary Littrell to inspire and challenge today’s young people.
Students heard firsthand what leadership looks like under pressure, how character forms in difficult moments, and why integrity matters in every decision.
The Integrity Path was honored to play a central role in the program with Gary sharing the six core values of the Medal of Honor: Courage, Commitment, Sacrifice, Integrity, Citizenship, and Patriotism. Gary was joined by an extraordinary lineup that included Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Jim Cragg.
Fun Facts on Bob Hope’s Patriot Hall:
1. It’s named after one of America’s greatest entertainers for the troops. Bob Hope performed for
U.S. service members for over 50 years, across World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and
beyond. Patriot Hall honors his legacy of entertainment, morale, and patriotism.
2. The hall is designed to celebrate military heritage and service. Patriot Hall often features exhibits,
memorabilia, and displays that highlight military values, sacrifice, and the history of American
armed forces.
3. Bob Hope holds the world record for “most USO tours by an entertainer.”
4. Many Patriot Halls feature Medal of Honor, POW/MIA, and veteran tributes.
5. Bob Hope used comedy to bring comfort in combat zones. He performed in places like: Vietnam
jungle outposts, Hospitals and medical tents, Aircraft carriers and battleships, and forward
operating bases. The Hall’s displays often reflect this unique blend of humor and heroism.
T.I.P- The Integrity Path was given an amazing opportunity to share the core values of The Medal of Honor: Courage, Commitment, Sacrifice, Integrity, Citizenship, and Patriotism. T.I.P was honored to share the stage with Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Jim Cragg, Lieutenant Colonel Erin S. Fritzler, U.S Army, Captain Ryan Barrios, Lieutenant Miles Walker, Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Johann Hindert, James McLanahan, Justin Garza, and our very own Command Sergeant Mayor (Ret.), Medal of Honor recipient Gary L. Littrell, who we thank for their service and sacrifice to our country.
Article by Ana Medina
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INVESTING IN INTEGRITY
The Lawyers for Warriors event was a momentous occasion that both Medal of Honor recipient Gary Littrell and his wife Suzanne Littrell enjoyed. The event took place at the Balboa Bay Club & Resort. In this meaningful evening, John C. Manly, Esq. received the award for Attorney of the Year, while Veteran of the year went to Hon. Richard King.
A signed Grenache magnum, an out-of-print Medal of Honor: Portraits of Valor Beyond the Call of Duty book, a signed folio of USPS “Medal of Honor: Vietnam War” Forever stamps, and a Gary Littrell coin were auctioned to help The Integrity Path meet its year-end fundraising goals. Each item was personally signed and personalized for the winning bidder.
Veteran of the Year: Hon. Richard King
A decorated Vietnam veteran and longtime supporter of VLI’s mission, Judge King has dedicated his career to fostering justice for veterans and their families. His leadership on and off the bench has inspired countless individuals to take action.
Judge Richard King enlisted in the Navy shortly after he graduated from high school in 1965. He served two tours in Vietnam from 1967 to 1969 as a “Seabee” (Naval Construction Forces), operating heavy equipment in combat. Upon honorable discharge, Judge King pursued his education, graduating from UCLA in 1974 and the University of San Diego School of Law in 1977. His first legal job was with the Office of the General Counsel of the US Department of Veterans Affairs in Washington, DC. In 1981, Judge King joined the Orange County District Attorney’s Office and, for fifteen years, prosecuted murder cases and became the head of the homicide unit for ten years. In 2000, Governor Grey Davis appointed him to the Orange County Superior Court, where he presides over complex, serious, and violent felonies.
In 2011, Chief Justice Tani Gorre Cantil-Sakauye appointed Judge King to the 1st California Interagency Council on Veterans to help coordinate local, state, and federal veterans’ benefits. Upon a diagnosis of Agent Orange cancer in 2012 and the successful treatment, Judge King reached out to the next of kin of his fellow Seabees, who died as heroes during a battle shortly after the TET Offensive in 1968. To honor their sacrifices, he returned with relatives to the site on the 50th anniversary of the battle. Judge King has presented his “Vietnam-A Journey Back” story to various civic, bar, and military groups to highlight the service and treatment of Vietnam Veterans. This Orange County resident earns VLI’s designation as Veteran of the Year for his service to the US military and the legal community.
Attorney of the Year: John Manly *
John C. Manly: Leading Advocate for Survivors and Veterans
John C. Manly, Esq., is one of the nation’s foremost attorneys representing survivors of sexual abuse and institutional misconduct. As the founding partner of Manly, Stewart & Finaldi, he has built a nationally recognized practice known for taking on powerful institutions (including schools, religious organizations, youth programs, and national athletic bodies) and securing justice for those they failed to protect. His litigation efforts have helped survivors recover billions of dollars in settlements and verdicts, and his work has driven systemic reforms across the country. Manly’s commitment to advocacy is shaped not only by his legal expertise but also by his military service. From 1993 to 2004, he served as an Intelligence Officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve, reaching the rank of Lieutenant. His assignments with the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center and Carrier Group One sharpened his strategic and investigative skills, which later became hallmarks of his legal approach. This background has also made him a powerful ally for veterans who have survived trauma or institutional mistreatment. In 2025, the Veterans Legal Institute honored Manly as Attorney of the Year at the Lawyers for Warriors Gala in Newport Beach, California. The recognition spotlighted his extraordinary advocacy on behalf of veterans, including those navigating the long-term impacts of abuse, injustice, or service-related hardship. VLI praised him for his “unwavering legal acumen” and for being a champion to veterans seeking stability, safety, and a path forward. Beyond the courtroom, Manly is known for his survivor-centered philosophy: ensuring dignity, support, and accountability in every case he takes. His influence extends through public policy conversations, media interviews, and national awareness efforts that continue to reshape how institutions respond to abuse. Through decades of leadership, he has become a defining figure in trauma-focused civil litigation and a steadfast advocate for those whose voices have long been ignored.
https://www.vetslegal.org/about-us/lawyers-for-warriors-press-release-2025/
Article by Ana Medina
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A FIVE-STAR SALUTE TO SERVICE
The Jonathan Club Event
The Jonathan Club provided complimentary rooms and special hospitality to Medal of Honor recipients, including welcoming gifts, a red-carpet arrival, and displays honoring them. The club hosted its Annual Veterans Day Dinner, described as a five-star event, where members and guests gathered to celebrate courage and military service.
The evening featured keynote speaker Nick Lavery, a U.S. Army Green Beret and the first Special Forces operator to return to combat as an above-the-knee amputee, who spoke about purpose and service. Honored guests included CWO5 Dominic Ventimiglia, CWO4 Robert Pennington, and Medal of Honor recipient CSM Gary L. Littrell. The event emphasized honoring past and present service members through a tribute led by Jonathan Club members and staff who have served.
Article by Ana Medina
Veteran's Day LAUSD Monroe High School
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Post 283
Santa Monica Pier Veterans Day event held on November 11, 2025, organized with support from American Legion Post 283 and Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army Sonki Hong. Post 283 invited the Integrity Path (T.I.P) team to participate and plans future leadership seminars aboard the Battleship IOWA. Command Sergeant Major (Ret.), Medal of Honor Recipient Gary Littrel was also invited to speak at the event and at future leadership symposiums.
The event took place on the Santa Monica Pier’s west parking deck and included military performances, a Chinook helicopter flyover, JROTC posting of colors from James Monroe High School, speeches from various officials, and a keynote address from General Bryan P. Fenton, Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command. Awards were presented to “Palisades Fire Recovery Heroes,” and remarks were given by officials including Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete.
Additional features included entertainment, free meals, resources for veterans, and complimentary ride tickets for veterans and active military members. The document emphasizes the significance of Veterans Day as highlighted by Sonki Hong, who expressed gratitude for veterans' service and sacrifice.
Article by Ana Medina
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Veteran's Day
American Legion Auxiliary 281 Fundraiser
The American Legion Auxiliary event was a night to remember. Command Sergeant Major and Medal of Honor recipient Gary Littrell spoke about how war changes a person — and how no two people return the same. He also spoke about Retired Private First Class, Medal of Honor recipient Kenneth M. Kays and Retire Sergeant, Medal of Honor Recipient Gary B. Beikirch and how the war changed their lives.
KENNETH KAYES
Private First Class Kenneth Michael Kays was a United States Army combat medic who served with Company D, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile) during the Vietnam War. Born on September 22, 1949, in Mount Vernon, Illinois, Kays enlisted in the Army in 1969 and deployed to Vietnam as a medical aidman responsible for treating wounded soldiers under fire. On May 7, 1970, near Fire Support Base Maureen in Thừa Thiên Province, Kays displayed extraordinary heroism during a brutal enemy assault. Despite being gravely wounded (losing part of his left leg to an explosive charge) he refused treatment for himself and repeatedly moved through intense enemy fire to reach injured comrades. Applying lifesaving medical aid and shielding fellow soldiers with his own body, he continued rescuing the wounded until he collapsed from blood loss. For his selfless courage and devotion to duty, Kays was awarded the Medal of Honor on October 15, 1973. After the war, Kays returned to Illinois, where he faced significant challenges including post-traumatic stress. He passed away on November 29, 1991, at the age of 42. Despite his struggles, Kenneth M. Kays is remembered as one of the most courageous medics of the Vietnam War, an enduring example of sacrifice, bravery, and commitment to saving others at any cost. * (video link coming soon)
GARY BEIKIRCH
Sergeant Gary Burnell Beikirch was a United States Army Special Forces medic whose heroism during the Vietnam War earned him the Medal of Honor. Born on August 29, 1947, in Rochester, New York, Beikirch enlisted in the Army in 1967 and trained as a combat medic with the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. He deployed to Vietnam and was assigned to Camp Dak Seang, a remote Special Forces outpost in the Central Highlands. On April 1, 1970, when the camp came under intense attack by North Vietnamese forces, Beikirch repeatedly ran through heavy fire to rescue wounded soldiers and indigenous Montagnard fighters. Despite suffering severe injuries (including shrapnel wounds and partial paralysis) he continued administering lifesaving aid and refused treatment for himself until others were safe. His unwavering courage and devotion to his comrades’ survival led to his receiving the Medal of Honor on October 15, 1973. After recovering from his wounds, Beikirch dedicated his life to service as a counselor, pastor, and advocate for veterans and youth. Known for his humility, compassion, and spiritual leadership, he spent more than 30 years working as a school counselor in Rochester. Beikirch passed away on December 26, 2021, leaving behind a legacy of selflessness, resilience, and extraordinary bravery. * (Video link coming soon)
* Works Cited
Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
“Kenneth M. Kays.” CMOHS,
https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/kenneth-m-kays. Accessed 22 Nov. 2025.
United States Army.
“Medal of Honor: PFC Kenneth Michael Kays.” U.S. Army Center of Military History,
https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/kenneth-m-kays. Accessed 22 Nov. 2025.
Ripcord Association.
“Bio: Kenneth Kays, D/1/506.” Battle of Firebase Ripcord Veterans Association,
https://ripcordassociation.com/bio-kenneth-kays-d-1-506/. Accessed 22 Nov. 2025.
Congressional Medal of Honor Society. “Gary B. Beikirch.” CMOHS, https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/gary-b-beikirch. Accessed 22 Nov. 2025.
United States Army. “Medal of Honor: Sgt. Gary Beikirch.” U.S. Army Center of Military History, https://history.army.mil/moh/vietnam-b.html#BEIKIRCH. Accessed 22 Nov. 2025.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.“Gary Burnell Beikirch.” VVMF Wall of Faces, https://www.vvmf.org/Wall-of-Faces/3229/GARY-B-BEIKIRCH/. Accessed 22 Nov. 2025.
Article by Ana Medina
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Westminster High School
Our visit with Westminster High School’s competitive rocket teams was truly meaningful. Their staff shared how much it mattered for the students to hear a message rooted in integrity and real purpose, especially in a world where teens are flooded with superficial ideas about what makes them valuable. They told us that taking the time to speak with their students will have a lasting impact.
The students’ excitement was just as powerful. They posted their own photos and videos expressing gratitude, and they were proud to show us the hard work behind their rockets. We look forward to following their journey as they continue to grow both in engineering and in character.
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Channel 5 News Interview
Medal of Honor recipients Mike Thornton and Gary Littrell were recently interviewed by Channel 5 News in Canton, Ohio,through the Patriot Project. During the segment, they reflected on their remarkable military service and the mentors who shaped their journeys as leaders and soldiers. Their message highlighted the lifelong impact of guidance, discipline, and shared values—principles that align closely with the same core ideals they champion today through The Integrity Path educational outreach and community engagement. Their stories continue to inspire others to lead with integrity, courage, and commitment both in and out of uniform.
Photo Caption:
Medal of Honor Recipient Gary Littrell sits for his interview as fellow Recipient Mike Thornton looks on. A powerful moment of reflection and shared brotherhood in service.
The Integrity Path Visits
Jackson Polar Bears High School
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Green High School
The Integrity Path joined forces with The Patriot Project in Canton, Ohio, for a series of inspiring events at Jackson Polar Bears High School and Green High School. Medal of Honor recipients Leroy Petry, Michael Thornton, and Gary Littrell shared powerful lessons on mentorship, leadership, and the six core values of the Medal of Honor—Integrity, Courage, Sacrifice, Commitment, Citizenship, and Patriotism—encouraging students and JROTC cadets to carry these ideals into their daily lives. The visits brought together students, faculty, and community members in a memorable celebration of service and character, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. During the events, Gary Littrell was honored with a private tour of Jackson High School’s military display, created by proud veteran alumni. Accompanied by Ashley Petry and Suzanne Littrell, Gary viewed the display with deep admiration for the veterans’ dedication—a touching reminder of how service, sacrifice, and pride in one’s community continue to inspire future generations.
MCON Inspiring Through Core Values
Gary Littrell spoke at MCON in Las Vegas, sharing The Integrity Path’s timeless message rooted in the six core values of the Medal of Honor — courage, commitment, sacrifice, citizenship, patriotism, and integrity.
His powerful remarks highlighted how these values continue to shape the strength and character of today’s military, veterans, and families and how they can guide our nation’s youth as the next generation of leaders.
We were deeply inspired by our meeting with Jessica Vargas, a Marine veteran who served two deployments to Iraq (2003 and 2004). Together, we are exploring ways to connect families, veterans, and young people through the shared foundation of values that have carried our nation through its greatest challenges.
Value Connection: The Integrity Path views gatherings like MCON as opportunities to frame national dialogue through the lens of enduring values, lived daily by veterans, families, and youth thus ensuring the next generation understands what courage, commitment, and citizenship truly mean.
Forging Leaders at the University of Tennessee: Army ROTC and the Six Core Values
Army ROTC at the University of Tennessee’s Rocky Top Battalion is one of the nation’s premier leadership programs, shaping students into leaders ready to excel in both military and civilian careers. Through hands-on training, field exercises, and classroom instruction, cadets gain critical skills in leadership, communication, decision-making, and strategic thinking. They also benefit from valuable scholarships, monthly stipends, and in-state tuition options, making ROTC both an educational and financial opportunity.
With a proud legacy dating back to 1844, UT’s program emphasizes service, teamwork, and the “Volunteer Spirit,” preparing students not only to lead but also to serve their communities and country with honor.
Recently, Medal of Honor recipients Gary Littrell and Joe Marm visited campus to share powerful lessons on leadership and character. Their conversations centered on the Six Core Values of the Medal of Honor: Courage, Commitment, Sacrifice, Integrity, Citizenship, and Patriotism. They spoke about how these principles shaped their decisions under pressure and how they remain essential to leadership in every aspect of life.
Their visit reminded cadets that true leadership is rooted in character — guiding them to act with integrity, inspire trust, and make a lasting difference in the world around them.
“Six Core Values, One Brave Heart:
The Story of Sgt. Ray E. Duke”
Suzanne Littrell recently visited two remarkable schools — Tommie F. Brown Academy in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and The Redemption Point Christian Academy — to share powerful lessons from the Medal of Honor Society’s Character Development Program with second graders. She was joined by Cherie McCloughan, wife of Medal of Honor recipient James McCloughan, and Christina Slabinski, wife of Medal of Honor recipient Britt Slabinski. Together, they shared stories of six Medal of Honor heroes whose lives exemplify the core values of Courage, Commitment, Sacrifice, Integrity, Patriotism, and Citizenship.
Though different in their approaches — Brown Academy is a STEM-designated school known for fostering curiosity, collaboration, and creative problem-solving, while Redemption Point emphasizes character, faith, and service as guiding principles — both schools share a common goal: preparing students to think critically, work together, and lead with integrity.
In both visits, students were deeply moved by the story of Sergeant First Class Ray E. Duke, who during the Korean War showed extraordinary bravery by ordering his men to leave him behind so they could reach safety. This act of sacrifice set the stage for a hands-on STEM challenge where students designed and built a stretcher capable of carrying a “wounded” potato across a simulated battlefield. The activity demonstrated how teamwork, innovation, and perseverance — values embodied by Duke — can make a real difference in challenging situations.
For Suzanne, Cherie, and Christina, the visits were deeply meaningful opportunities to connect with young learners. They shared not only stories of heroism but also the message that these six values are not just military ideals — they are guiding principles for life. By the end of the day, students at both schools walked away inspired to live with courage, act with integrity, and work together to make their communities stronger.
The Integrity Path Joins
STARBASE in Shaping Futures
The Integrity Path was honored to join DOD STARBASE, a program dedicated to inspiring students through hands-on STEM education. While STARBASE leads the way in science, technology, engineering, and math, our role was to support their mission by sharing the Six Core Values of the Medal of Honor—courage, commitment, sacrifice, integrity, citizenship, and patriotism. Medal of Honor recipient Gary Littrell and Suzanne Littrell spoke with students, encouraging them to see how these timeless values can guide their choices both inside and outside the classroom.
Together, The Integrity Path and STARBASE are building a collaborative relationship to give students both the technical tools and the character foundation they need for their future. For many, this is a true tipping point—a moment where they decide which direction their life will take. By combining STEM education with values that shape citizenship and leadership, we aim to inspire students to take the right path forward.
Courage
Comittment
Sacrifice
Integrity
Citizenship
Patriotism
This video captures a heartfelt reflection from a student who shares how deeply she connected with Gary Littrell’s message. More than just appreciating his words, she truly understood the power of his presence and leadership. She saw him not only as a Medal of Honor recipient but as someone the world and especially students truly need. His values-centered guidance, she explains, inspires young people to live with purpose, integrity, and courage. For her, Gary isn’t just a hero,he’s a life-changer.
In Her Own Words: The Impact of Gary's Story.
