17th Official Cold War Patriots National Day of Remembrance™ Recap

OFFICIAL RECOGNITION

Since 2009, Cold War Patriots and Professional Case Management have proudly worked with the U.S. Senate to honor the men and women who built and maintained our nation’s nuclear defense. We’re the only organization to host commemorative events every year and actively support the Senate’s resolution process.

Just days before October 30th, the Senate passed Resolution 467, officially recognizing the National Day of Remembrance for the 17th consecutive year. This year’s observance was especially meaningful—it coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA) becoming law.

HONORING THE HEROES

This year, we held in-person ceremonies in Oak Ridge, TN and Paducah, KY to honor the men and women of the nuclear weapons and uranium complex.

The ceremonies featured moving speeches from former workers, the U.S. Department of Labor Ombudsman’s Office, historians, union leaders, and the doctors and nurses who cared for recently deceased workers. Each speaker paid tribute to the selfless contributions of this community. Many stories brought tears to guests’ eyes, reflecting the deep impact these workers—and their families—have had on our nation. As the names of recently deceased workers were read aloud, seventeen candles were lit in their honor. The program concluded with emotional performances by local high school and middle school choirs.

For those unable to attend in person, we hosted a virtual NDR on October 30th. The event included special messages from Lead Senate Co-Sponsors and the U.S. DOL Ombudsman’s Office, followed by a special video created by Peter Kuran, featuring workers and sites from across the country. A virtual candle was lit, and viewers were encouraged to light their own at home as we featured the names of workers who had recently passed.

To watch the 17th Official Cold War Patriots National Day of Remembrance^TM virtual ceremony click the button below.

2025 CEREMONY

IN REMEMBRANCE

We extend our deepest gratitude to the families and friends who submitted names. It was an honor to celebrate their legacy together. Each of these heroes carried a story— one of strength, sacrifice, and service—that lives on in all of us and in the nation they helped protect.

Each name we remember is a light—one that illuminated families, communities, and the freedoms we hold dear. May that light continue to shine, and may we gather again next year for the 18th National Day of Remembrance.

OAK RIDGE, TENNESSEE
October 16, 2025

Thank you to our co-sponsors, Professional Case Management and Cancer Support Community East Tennessee. Special performance by Oak Ridge High School Choir.

All photos taken and provided by Brett Pate, Retired Y-12 Photographer.

PADUCAH, KENTUCKY
October 30, 2025

Thank you to our co-sponsors, Professional Case Management and Veterans of Steel.  Special performance by Paducah Middle School Choir.