RALEIGH, N.C. — Leadership is built on values and few embody those principles more than the nation’s Medal of Honor recipients. On Feb. 13, the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, in partnership with North Carolina State University’s Shelton Leadership Center, hosted an engaging panel discussion, “Inspiring American Leadership,” at Duke Energy Hall in the James B. Hunt Library.
The event featured two of the nation’s 61 living Medal of Honor recipients, Kyle Carpenter and Matt Williams, both recognized for their heroism during the War on Terrorism in Afghanistan. They were joined by Barbara Mulkey, board chair of the Research Triangle Park Foundation, and Tim Humphrey, chief analytics officer at IBM, in a conversation about how courage, integrity, commitment, sacrifice, citizenship and patriotism shape effective leadership in all aspects of life.
Lessons in Leadership
Kyle Carpenter, recipient of the Medal of Honor for shielding a fellow Marine from a grenade blast in Afghanistan, spoke about the universal nature of leadership.
“The greatest honors of my life will always be the privilege of sacrificing for my country and the opportunity to serve others,” Carpenter said. “You don’t need a hand grenade, a battlefield or a uniform to demonstrate courage, to be a leader or to help someone. No matter where we come from or what our experiences are, we all have the ability to make an impact and to become a leader.”
Matt Williams, honored for his actions during a harrowing 2008 firefight in Afghanistan, echoed the sentiment that leadership extends far beyond military service.
“Hearing firsthand from individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and leadership on and off the battlefield was truly inspiring. The insights shared by both military heroes and business leaders highlighted the universal importance of values-driven leadership across all areas of life.”
The discussion highlighted the intersection of military heroism and civilian leadership, with panelists offering practical strategies for applying Medal of Honor values to personal and professional development.
Looking ahead, the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership will continue to host training sessions, workshops and speaking engagements across the country. These programs aim to equip individuals with the skills to lead with integrity and purpose.
Learn more about the Center for Leadership’s initiatives here.
