Captain Larry L. Taylor exhibit unveiled at the MOHHC

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) –  The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center (MOHHC) officially unveiled the Captain Larry L. Taylor Exhibit on Saturday, March 29, 2025, with a grand opening that drew hundreds of visitors.

The event honored the extraordinary legacy of Captain Larry Taylor, a Chattanooga native and Vietnam War hero, who was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2023 for his incredible bravery during a daring helicopter rescue mission amid the Battle of Khe Sanh.

The day’s events began with an exclusive preview for Heritage Center members at 8 a.m., followed by an emotional “Bricks of Honor” dedication ceremony at the Aquarium Plaza at 11 a.m.

The official unveiling took place at 1 p.m. inside the Heritage Center, where public tickets had sold out well in advance, reflecting the immense community interest in honoring Captain Taylor’s life and service.

During the ceremony, General B.B. Bell elaborated on the significance of Captain Taylor’s sacrifice, proclaiming, “Here today we commit to you, and we so proclaim that we shall never leave you behind. You did that for us, now we’re going to try to do it for you.”

His words resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing the enduring promise to honor Captain Taylor’s service and valor.

The exhibit masterfully captures Captain Taylor’s story through a variety of interactive and historical displays.

It features a diverse collection of artifacts, including personal memorabilia, historical documents, and a full-sized replica of Captain Taylor’s AH-1G Cobra helicopter—the very aircraft he piloted during the heroic mission that earned him the nation’s highest military honor.

Frank Hughes, Chairman of the Board, expressed his enthusiasm about the exhibit, stating, “It was so cool because David and I both collaborated on the idea, and when the army officer offered a live cobra to bring in here, we’re going, ‘Cool, we need to do this.’”

His comments highlighted the dedication and creative vision that went into making the exhibit a reality.

News 12 spoke with David Hill, one of the men whose life was saved by Captain Taylor’s heroic actions that night.

Reflecting on the life-or-death situation, Hill explained, “We were in trouble. We were out of ammo at that point, and so it was Larry. You’ve heard that phrase, ‘Don’t go to a gunfight with nothing but a knife.’ Well, we were in a gunfight, and all we had was a knife. The only ship available was Taylor’s. Thank you, Taylor.”

He recounted that Taylor’s timely arrival and quick decision-making changed the course of their fate.

Taylor always said, “I just happened to be in the area, and you all needed help.”

The Captain Larry L. Taylor Exhibit will forever preserve his legacy and share his inspiring story with future generations.

His words continue to echo as a guiding principle for leaders of tomorrow: “Somewhere, some people are depending on you to make the right decision.”

The exhibit serves as a timeless reminder of Captain Taylor’s courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers—a story that will continue to inspire for years to come.

Third-party video material courtesy of: National Medal of Honor Heritage Center