Medal of Honor Grove
About Us
The Friends of the Medal of Honor Grove are dedicated to honoring sacrifice, preserving history, and fostering civic education.
Located on the campus of Founding Forward in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve as stewards of a 42-acre living memorial that honors the courage and selflessness of more than 3,500 recipients of our nation’s highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor.
In partnership with Founding Forward, we work to amplify our shared mission and broaden our impact. Founding Forward’s commitment to immersive civic education perfectly complements our dedication to honoring America’s heroes, inspiring future generations, and preserving this sacred ground for all who visit.
Our Mission
Our mission is to ensure that the Medal of Honor Grove remains a place of honor, remembrance, and inspiration. By preserving its natural beauty and enhancing its memorial spaces, we create an enduring tribute to Medal of Honor recipients and educate visitors on their courage and commitment to freedom. Together with Founding Forward, we honor the past, inspire the present, and shape the future for generations to come.
Our History
The Medal of Honor Grove was established in 1964 on the campus of Founding Forward (formerly the Freedoms Foundation) at Valley Forge. In June 2011, the Friends of the Medal of Honor Grove proudly assumed responsibility for maintaining and preserving this beautiful memorial park. Since then, our dedicated efforts have included paving new roads, mowing, removing hazardous trees, organizing community cleanups, and installing plaques honoring new recipients each year.
In April 2017, Founding Forward entered into a conservation easement agreement with Schuylkill Township, Chester County, and the Natural Lands Trust. This agreement ensures that the Medal of Honor Grove will be protected in perpetuity, safeguarding it for future generations.
In February 2019, the Grove earned Level 1 arboretum accreditation through the ArbNet program, recognizing its collection of over 50 tree and shrub species. The Grove has also become an Audubon Bird Habitat, providing a sanctuary for local wildlife and a tranquil place for visitors to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of America’s Medal of Honor recipients.
What We Do
At the Friends of the Medal of Honor Grove, we support ongoing projects to:
- Restore and maintain each state’s memorial area, ensuring that it honors the heroes it represents.
- Host educational and community events that inspire visitors and build awareness of the sacrifices made by Medal of Honor recipients.
- Protect the natural environment of the Grove, providing a serene and respectful setting for reflection.