HENDERSON, Nev. — Medal of Honor values of courage, sacrifice, patriotism, citizenship, integrity, and commitment were the foundation of a transformative two-day leadership training hosted by the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership (NMOHCFL). The event, held on Jan. 15-16, marked the start of an inaugural training program, conducted in partnership with the Henderson Fire Department.
The program, Building High-Trust, High-Performing Teams: Overcoming Challenges Through Core Values, attracted over 100 fire and police department personnel. The training aimed to strengthen team dynamics and equip participants with actionable leadership skills rooted in the Medal of Honor’s legacy.
“This training provided an opportunity to not only explore the challenges teams face but also to see how the core Medal of Honor values can be applied to overcome those obstacles,” said Earl Plumlee, Medal of Honor recipient and a veteran of the War on Terrorism in Afghanistan. Plumlee, along with fellow recipient Leroy Petry, opened the event, sharing powerful stories of resilience and teamwork.
A Unique Approach to Leadership Education
Unlike traditional leadership programs, the NMOHCFL prioritizes values-based leadership. The Henderson training incorporated a blend of storytelling, scenario-based workshops, and interactive sessions, offering participants practical tools for tackling real-world challenges. Key themes included building trust, fostering accountability, and promoting team alignment.







“Leadership is about inspiring others to achieve more than they thought possible,” said Petry. “The Medal of Honor values are the foundation for leaders who want to create a meaningful impact on their teams and communities.”
Participants embraced the immersive format, which featured Medal of Honor recipients as session leaders. Through their firsthand accounts, attendees gained a deeper understanding of how courage and integrity can drive effective leadership.
A Pivotal Impact on First Responders
For Henderson Fire Department Chief Scott Vivier, the training was a pivotal moment for his team. “The Medal of Honor values align perfectly with the principles we strive to uphold as first responders,” Vivier said. “This training was transformative for our department and will have a lasting impact on how we serve our community.”
The training session provided a comprehensive exploration of the importance of adaptability, particularly for first responders who regularly navigate unpredictable and high-pressure situations. The dynamic nature of their work requires them to respond swiftly to changing circumstances, making flexibility an essential, and necessary, skill.
During the training, participants engaged in interactive exercises that highlighted real-life scenarios, allowing them to practice and enhance their ability to adjust their strategies on the fly. This practical approach emphasized not only the necessity of quick thinking but also the value of maintaining a calm demeanor in the face of crises.
Moreover, the session delved into actionable strategies designed to improve collaboration among team members. Participants learned techniques for fostering open communication and vital tools for establishing trust and understanding within a team. The training also addressed ways to handle conflicts constructively, encouraging responders to view disagreements as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. By cultivating a culture of constructive feedback and support, first responders can work more effectively together.
The foundation of the training was centered on the idea of aligning efforts with shared goals. Participants were encouraged to engage in goal-setting exercises that would help clarify team objectives and ensure everyone was working towards the same end. This alignment not only enhances teamwork but also boosts morale, as team members can see their contributions toward a common mission.
Overall, participants left the training equipped with a toolkit of strategies aimed at improving their responsiveness and teamwork, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness in serving their communities under challenging conditions.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Nationwide Impact
The Henderson event is just the beginning for the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership. They plan to expand their leadership offerings across the United States, blending in-person and virtual programs tailored to various audiences. Future initiatives include workshops for schools, corporate teams, and civic organizations, as well as an online leadership academy.
“By sharing the timeless lessons of Medal of Honor recipients, we aim to equip individuals and teams with the tools they need to be successful leaders."
Thomas Mundell, NMOHCFL President & CEO
Additionally, the Center is developing a 50,000-square-foot facility at Patriots Point in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. The facility will feature cutting-edge training spaces, interactive exhibits, and multimedia experiences, bringing Medal of Honor stories to life for visitors of all ages.
Join the Mission to Meet Your Moment
The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership is dedicated to inspiring leaders to meet their moment by embracing values that have shaped the nation’s greatest heroes. For more information on upcoming programs and events, visit mohcenterforleadership.org/events.