The Charlie Daniels Patriot Awards are an annual event that honors an individual or group that embodies the mission of The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project, which supports and uplifts those who have served in the U.S. The 2024 awards dinner, set to be held at Nashville’s City Winery, will recognize several recipients, including broadcaster Storme Warren, former NYPD commissioner Bernie Kerick, and Tom Higgins of Fiserv Incorporated in Milwaukee. The Vigiano family of Long Island, New York, who have been involved in first responder work for three generations, including those who perished on 9/11, will also be honored at the event. John Vigiano, a former FDNY firefighter, is praised as a hero by David Corlew, Daniels’ longtime manager and president of the Journey Home Project.
Joe Vigiano, one of John’s sons, was hailed as a natural-born hero who responded courageously to the 9/11 attacks alongside his brother and father. Joe’s widow, Kathleen Vigiano, and two of their sons, Joseph Jr. and James, expressed gratitude for the recognition their family is receiving. They emphasized the generational aspect of their patriotism, as the family has a long history of service in the NYPD and the military. Joseph Jr., now a police officer himself, praised the supportive community of first responders that helped his family after the tragedy of losing his father and uncle on 9/11.
The loss of both Joe and John Vigiano on 9/11 deeply affected their family, but also inspired a continued sense of duty and service in their descendants. John Vigiano Sr., after retiring from the FDNY, dedicated himself to showing gratitude to America’s military and first responders. Joseph Vigiano Jr., who initially had different career aspirations, eventually followed in his family’s footsteps and became a police officer. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by first responders and expressed appreciation for the support his family has received from their community.
Kathleen Vigiano, the matriarch of the family, expressed pride in her three sons, including John Vigiano who is serving with the U.S. Marine Corps in Hawaii. The decision to hold the 2024 Patriot Awards on the anniversary of 9/11 was symbolic, aiming to honor the heroic actions of those who served on that tragic day. Special guests at the event will include military consultant Mark “Oz” Geist and country star Trace Adkins. The ceremony aims to pay tribute to the many individuals who went above and beyond to help others on 9/11, highlighting the selfless service and sacrifice of America’s first responders and military members.
Overall, the Charlie Daniels Patriot Awards serve as a platform to recognize and celebrate individuals and families who have dedicated themselves to serving and protecting their communities and country. The generational patriotism exemplified by the Vigiano family is a testament to the enduring spirit of heroism and sacrifice that defines many American families. The event, set to take place on the anniversary of 9/11, will honor the memory of those who bravely responded to the terrorist attacks and continue to inspire future generations to uphold the values of service and sacrifice.
