9.18.24
I had the immense honor of speaking at the Lone Sailor Awards Dinner in Washington, D.C.—an unforgettable evening that brought together military heroes, supporters, and advocates from all walks of life to celebrate the legacy of service in our armed forces. Hosted by the U.S. Navy Memorial, the event is dedicated to honoring individuals whose dedication to our country exemplifies the courage, resilience, and integrity that define the Navy and Marine Corps.
For me, this event carried an especially personal significance, as it highlighted the USS Arizona crew—the brave men who made the ultimate sacrifice on December 7, 1941, during the attack on Pearl Harbor. This legacy is woven into my own family’s history, with my grandfather, Donald Stratton, being one of the few survivors of that fateful day. As I stood before the audience, I couldn’t help but think of his incredible story and how his courage, along with that of his shipmates, has shaped my life and the lives of so many others.
One of the most emotional moments of the evening was a powerful video tribute to the USS Arizona crew. The footage took us back to that harrowing day, offering a visual reminder of the sailors who gave their lives in defense of our nation. As we watched, the room fell silent, each of us reflecting on the enormity of their sacrifice. The young faces of those sailors reminded us all of the personal toll that freedom exacts. Their sacrifice must never be forgotten. The video was not just a history lesson—it was a call to action to carry their stories forward, ensuring that their bravery continues to inspire future generations.
I also had the privilege of meeting two incredible Medal of Honor recipients—Colonel Harvey C. Barnum Jr. and Master Chief Edward Byers. These two men embody the very best of our nation. Colonel Barnum, who earned the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War, is a testament to leadership under fire. Master Chief Byers, a Navy SEAL who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his courage in a hostage rescue mission in Afghanistan, represents the ongoing bravery of our special forces in modern-day conflicts.
Standing alongside these living legends was a humbling experience. Their stories of valor and selflessness serve as powerful reminders that the spirit of service and sacrifice spans generations, from World War II to today’s ongoing global efforts to protect our freedoms.
As I spoke about my grandfather and the importance of preserving the memory of the USS Arizona and all who served aboard her, I was struck by the overwhelming sense of unity in the room. Whether we wore the uniform or simply stood in support, everyone was connected by a shared sense of duty to those who serve and protect our country. It is this spirit that drives me, not just as the sponsor of the future USS Arizona submarine, but as a granddaughter of a survivor, and as a citizen who deeply values the freedoms these men fought to preserve.
The evening concluded with a standing ovation for the honorees—a heartfelt tribute to those who continue to serve and protect our nation with the same courage and dedication as the sailors who came before them.
I left the dinner feeling profoundly grateful for the opportunity to share my grandfather’s story and to meet men like Colonel Barnum and Master Chief Byers. But even more so, I felt a renewed commitment to ensuring that the legacy of the USS Arizona crew, and all our service members, lives on.
As we move forward, let us remember the words that have been etched in history but must remain close to our hearts: We must never forget.