Working in partnership with organizations representing the U.S. Army Special Operations Command and Naval Special Warfare Command, the Ben Franklin Global Forum designed, planned, and executed a series of events to honor the service of the men and women of U.S. Special Operations Command and to support the families of the nation’s fallen warriors. A select group of Gold Star Families from across the United States was invited to participate. Several Maryland Gold Star Mothers, plus guests, were invited to all of the events. Gold Star Mothers Rosemarie Ceo, Paula Davis, Joy Goode, Yvonne Green, Theresa Karlson, Donna Robinson attended all or some of the events, along with Gold Star Dad, Garry Green, and Step-Dad, Greg Goode.
This year’s event—now known as the Army–Navy Football Classic Gala and Gold Star Weekend—took place from Thursday, December 11, through Sunday, December 14, 2025. Senior military and Department of Defense leaders served as keynote speakers, joining members of the Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard, along with veterans, civilian leaders, and their guests, to commemorate the 123rd meeting between the Cadets of the U.S. Military Academy and the Midshipmen of the U.S. Naval Academy.
The weekend began on Thursday evening, December 11, with a welcome and get-acquainted buffet dinner. This was followed on Friday, December 12, by a reception and formal Gala held on the eve of the Army–Navy Football Classic.
At the Gala, the 2025 Admiral LeMoyne Award was presented to the following recipients:
Major Nicholas Dockery
U.S. Army Special Forces
Captain Joseph L. Geary
Naval Special Warfare Command
Senior Master Sergeant Charles R. Fletcher
United States Air Force
Master Gunnery Sergeant Louis “JR” Dane
United States Marine Corps.
On Saturday morning, December 13, Gold Star Families, their escorts, and invited dignitaries assembled in the hotel lobby for a Maryland State Police–escorted executive coach bus ride. The procession traveled first to the Forum’s Honor Stop at the Locust Point Fire Station and then continued to M&T Bank Stadium. At the Honor Stop, Gold Star Families were recognized by firefighters standing outside the firehouse holding posters bearing photos of their fallen loved ones. A brief ceremony was held before the escorted ride proceeded to the stadium.
Following the game, guests were escorted to a post-game celebration at the Howard Masonic Lodge. Dinner was provided by Mission BBQ, and entertainment was featured by Gallagher’s Frolic Irish Band and Irish Dancers. Gold Star Families and attendees were encouraged to join the dancers as they demonstrated traditional Irish dance steps, creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere.
The weekend concluded on a high note with a great game—and a victory for Navy!
