Houston, TX – Today, the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation’s Griffin Institute, in partnership with the NFL Foundation, the Houston Texans, and EVERFI from Blackbaud, brought the impactful Character Playbook series to 400 middle school students at Aldine Middle School in Houston. This engaging educational session focused on helping young people build critical life skills through character development using personal stories of Medal of Honor Recipients.

The program featured an insightful conversation with Medal of Honor Recipient Cpt. Flo Groberg, Texans legends Earl Mitchell and Mike Quinn, and Texans Cheerleaders Emma and Madison. The panel discussion helped connect students with the values of courage, integrity, and commitment exemplified by the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award for valor in combat.

“Middle school is a pivotal time to learn about the importance of character,” said Texans Legend Mike Quinn. “Sharing these values with students through the incredible stories of Medal of Honor recipients is a privilege. We hope it inspires the next generation to lead with integrity and courage.”

The Houston Texans’ involvement showcased their broader mission to uplift local communities through meaningful educational initiatives. Using real-world applications, the Character Playbook program funded by the NFL Foundation integrates courage and integrity into classroom lessons. These educational resources provide a foundation for students to build character and develop leadership qualities essential for future success and relationship-building.

“Medal of Honor recipients embody the highest values of character and leadership,” said NMOHMF President and CEO Chris Cassidy. “Through this program and the support of EVERFI, the NFL Foundation, and the Houston Texans, we are empowering students to embrace these values and make a positive impact in their communities.”

Since its launch in 2016, the NFL Character Playbook program has reached more than three million students, helping them develop and maintain healthy and supportive relationships. Through a partnership with National Medal of Honor Griffin Institute and the NFL Foundation, Character Playbook recently added Medal of Honor focused modules to its platform that use the stories of real-life American heroes to demonstrate how students can apply the values of courage, commitment, and integrity to their lives.

 

About the Museum, Monument and Institute: The National Medal of Honor Museum, Monument and Griffin Institute will inspire Americans by honoring and preserving the history of the highest military decoration awarded for valor in combat. Serving as a national landmark – and located in America’s heartland in Arlington, Texas – the Museum will provide an unrivaled visitor experience and illustrate the historical thread of sacrifice, patriotism and courage that runs through all U.S. military service members, past and present. Beyond its state-of-the-art, interactive experiences, a critical part of the Museum’s mission will be to use the stories of Medal of Honor recipients to inspire their fellow Americans and motivate them to be their best selves.

 

Through dynamic and far-reaching programing, the National Medal of Honor Griffin Institute will bring to life the core values inherent to the Medal of Honor. Programming from the Griffin Institute will reach classrooms, boardrooms, and communities around the country.

 

A National Monument in Washington, D.C., will commemorate the service and sacrifice of the bravest and most decorated members of the U.S. Armed Forces. To be located in the nation’s capital, it will give all Americans the opportunity to reflect on the courage and patriotism that safeguard freedom and democracy.