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American Freedom Honors

Nominate a Hero

Nominations for the American Freedom Honors Awards open November 1, 2026. Review the criteria below and prepare your nomination package.

Eligibility
All Eras of Military Service
All Branches of Service
Active, Reserve, Guard & Veterans
Domestic & Overseas Service

Submit Your Nomination Package

Review the requirements below, download and complete Forms 1–4 from the official application packet, then submit everything through this form. Video submissions are sent separately by email to applications@americanfreedomhonors.com.

Nomination Window: November 1, 2026 – January 31, 2027 All nomination materials must be received by midnight CST on January 31, 2027.
Criteria & Application Packet Download the official AFH Criteria and Application document for full eligibility details, selection criteria, and all required nomination forms.
Download PDF

Required Nomination Package

  • 1
    Commander's Nomination (Form 1)

    Includes unit and personnel data on the nominee. Must be signed by the nominee's Commander or designated representative. Veterans must have the form signed by a Commander of the American Legion, DAV, VFW, or similar organization.

  • 2
    Narrative Justification (Form 2)

    Completed in bullet format highlighting specific individual accomplishments for each selection category listed. Demonstrates Leadership (80%), Military Accomplishments (80%), and Service to Others (60%).

  • 3
    Biography of Individual (Form 3)

    A 500-word paragraph briefly highlighting the nominee's career. Used to prepare award introductions during the presentation and in the awards show program.

  • 4
    Biography of Unit or Military Spouse (Form 4)

    A 500-word paragraph highlighting the unit's accomplishments, awards, and community service — or, for Military Spouse nominees, a biography of the spouse. Used for award introductions and the program.

  • 5
    Photograph

    A color head-and-shoulder photograph in service dress uniform without headgear. Units must submit a group picture and picture of unit patch. Veterans submit a photograph in formal wear. Submit a high-quality color JPEG file.

  • 6
    Digital Video

    An editable two-minute video explaining who you are, your branch of service, where you are stationed, and why you deserve to become an award winner. Used during the awards presentation and public voting process.

Military Spouse of the Year — Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be a spouse of an Active Duty, Guard, or Reserve service member of the U.S. Armed Forces (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, or Coast Guard).
  • May not currently be serving on Active Duty, as a Reservist, Individual Ready Reserve, or National Guardsman in any branch.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must submit a letter of recommendation from their spouse's commander and agree to submit a one-minute video to be played at the gala.
Blue-Ribbon Panel Evaluation Categories
  • Leadership skills shown in past efforts within the military spouse community.
  • Active involvement in the military community, with a focus on supporting the different needs and experiences of military spouses.
  • Passion and advocacy showing inclusiveness for all military spouses.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in public settings and work with media outlets on military spouse issues.
  • Shares a story that inspires and reflects the diverse realities of military spouses.
Video Submission — Email Required Your two-minute video cannot be uploaded here due to file size. Email it directly to applications@americanfreedomhonors.com with your nominee's name and award category in the subject line. Videos are used during the awards presentation and public voting process.

    Award Category

    Nominee Information

    Nominator / Contact Information

    Upload Nomination Forms

    Complete Forms 1–4 from the Criteria & Application Packet PDF, then upload each completed form below. Accepted formats: PDF or Word (.doc / .docx). Max 8 MB per file.

    Must be signed by the nominee's Commander or a Commander of a recognized veterans organization (American Legion, DAV, VFW, etc.).

    Bullet format highlighting specific accomplishments demonstrating Leadership (80%), Military Accomplishments (80%), and Service to Others (60%).

    500-word biography highlighting the nominee's career. Used for award introductions and the program.

    Required for Best Unit and Military Spouse of the Year categories. 500-word biography of the unit's accomplishments or the military spouse.

    Official Photograph

    Head-and-shoulder photo in service dress uniform without headgear. Units: group photo + unit patch. Veterans: formal wear. Submit a high-quality color JPEG.

    Award Categories
    • Hero of the Year Exceptional valor or service above and beyond
    • Leadership Excellence Outstanding leadership that inspired others in the field
    • Community Service Organization Outstanding support of military and veterans
    • Unsung Hero Award Those who served quietly without recognition
    • Lifetime of Service A career of distinguished military service
    • Best Non-Commissioned Officer One award for Active Duty, one for Guard/Reserve
    • Best Officer One award for Active Duty, one for Guard/Reserve
    • Best Unit One award for Active Duty, one for Guard/Reserve
    • Military Spouse of the Year Dedicated to military spouses who serve their communities
    Selection Process

    All nominations are reviewed by the American Freedom Honors selection committee. Submitting a nomination does not guarantee selection.

    The committee may contact nominators for additional information. Finalists and honorees notifications will begin May 1, 2027.

    Questions?

    For assistance with your nomination please contact us directly.

    Email:
    kurt@americanfreedomhonors.com