Scenic Roots

"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

For The National Medal Of Honor, A Commemorative Week

WUTC | By Ray Bassett

Published March 18, 2024 at 6:28 PM EDT

The Medal of Honor awarded in September 2023 to Capt. Larry Taylor - now on display at the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. (Capt. Taylor died in January 2024.)

Next Monday is National Medal of Honor Day - recognizing this nation’s highest military award for valor.

Chattanooga is where the medal was first presented - on March 25th, 1863 during the Civil War - and today, this city is home to Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center.

This Saturday, the Center holds its quarterly Bricks of Valor ceremony , dedicating the latest commemorative bricks for its plaza - the first in a series of events for its Medal of Honor Week.

Maranda Wilkinson is the Center’s director of education and public programming.

Scott Saunders provides historical interpretation there.