The Charlie Daniels Patriot Awards will once again be held, this time on the anniversary of 9/11. The annual awards dinner honors individuals or groups who embody the mission of The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project, which supports and encourages those who have served the U.S. Several Patriot Award recipients will be recognized at the 2024 event, including broadcaster Storme Warren, former NYPD commissioner Bernie Kerick, and Tom Higgins from Fiserv Incorporated in Milwaukee. Also being honored is the Vigiano family of Long Island, New York, a three-generation family of first responders, including some who perished while responding on 9/11.
The Vigiano family has a strong tradition of service, with patriarch John Vigiano serving as a FDNY firefighter and having two sons, John Jr. and Joseph, who also served as first responders. Both sons responded to the events of 9/11 and tragically did not survive. It is a multi-generational story of patriotism and service. Joe Vigiano’s wife, Kathleen, and two of her sons, Joseph Jr. and James, expressed gratitude for their family being honored by the Charlie Daniels team. Joseph Vigiano Jr., a NYPD police officer, humbly acknowledged the sacrifice and bravery of his family and fellow first responders.
John Vigiano Sr., after losing both of his sons on 9/11, devoted his life to thanking America’s military and first responders. Despite initially having different career plans, his grandson, Joseph Vigiano Jr., was inspired by the support shown by the NYPD after his father’s passing to become a police officer. Joseph Jr. wants to ensure that the sacrifices of first responders do not go unnoticed and appreciates the recognition from the Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project. The family’s pride in their service is evident, with Kathleen expressing her pride in her sons, including John Vigiano’s service with the U.S. Marine Corps.
The decision to hold the Patriot Awards ceremony on 9/11 this year is symbolic in honoring all those who served on that day and in the aftermath. Charlie Daniels’ longtime manager and president of the Journey Home Project, David Corlew, highlighted the heroic acts of countless individuals on 9/11, emphasizing the extraordinary efforts made to save and care for others. The event will also include special guests like military consultant Mark “Oz” Geist, known for his actions in Benghazi, and country star Trace Adkins. The continued recognition and support of those who have served the country, particularly first responders like the Vigiano family, is essential in honoring their sacrifices and contributions.
Overall, the annual Charlie Daniels Patriot Awards ceremony recognizes individuals and groups who embody the spirit of service and sacrifice for the country. The 2024 event will honor the Vigiano family, a multi-generational family of first responders, including those who responded on 9/11 and tragically did not survive. Their dedication and service are emblematic of the patriotism that runs through generations. The event, taking place on the anniversary of 9/11, is a symbolic tribute to all those who served on that fateful day. The recognition and support provided by the Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project demonstrate a commitment to honoring and caring for those who have served the U.S. and ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
