In Conversation: Sammy L. Davis and the Medal of Honor

Sammy L. Davis at the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Center in Chattanooga - in March 2024.(Kenny Turpen / MOHHC)Sammy L. Davis served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.In 1968, he received the Medal of Honor - this nation’s highest military award for valor - presented to him by President Lyndon B. Johnson at the White House.Ever seen the movie “Forrest Gump”?You might recognize footage from Sammy’s award ceremony that - thanks to Hollywood magic - becomes Forrest’s ceremony with LBJ.Chattanooga is home to the Charles H. Coolidge Medal of Honor Heritage Center - and last week, Sammy visited this city during Medal of Honor Week at the center, where I had the chance to speak with him.Sammy L. Davis, at right - with Ray Bassett, at left - at the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Center in Chattanooga in March 2024.(Kenny Turpen / MOHHC)