Over the past 20 years, the Midway American Patriot Gala has paid tribute to titans of industry, elected officials, civic leaders, astronauts, war heroes, and trailblazers across every sector.
This year, the USS Midway Museum turned its attention to the sports playing field by honoring former San Diego Chargers linebacker Donnie Edwards and former San Diego Padres pitcher Craig Stammen as the recipients of the 2025 Midway American Patriot Award.
“There has always been a strong connection between professional athletes and our active military,” said Terry Kraft, Midway’s president and CEO. “We both understand the commitment to a goal, the teamwork required to get there and the support we provide each other every day. We salute these two individuals who have taken their passion for excellence and turned it into purpose. They have dedicated themselves to supporting our active-duty military, military veterans and their families.”
Craig Stammen spent more than a decade in major league baseball, pitching with the San Diego Padres and Washington Nationals. A true team leader on and off the field, Craig has long championed military families – hosting service members and their families at games and organizing clinics for military kids. He currently serves on the board of directors for United Heroes League, an organization providing sports equipment, camps, and financial assistance to children of military personnel. His philanthropic and charitable work has been recognized with the Bob Feller Act of Valor Award in 2020 and as a nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award in 2022.
“It’s quite an honor to receive an award like this,” said Craig, who pitched for the Padres from 2017 to 2022. “When you receive an award like this, you have to thank the people that got you here, my family, the San Diego Padres, and United Heroes League founder Shawn Hudella. It’s a great honor to be here on Midway and to receive this award.”
Donnie Edwards, a San Diego native and all-pro NFL linebacker, spent a stellar 14-year career with the San Diego Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs. He has dedicated his post-football life to honoring those who have and continue to wear the uniform of the nation. Through 10 USO tours and his Best Defense Foundation that he co-founded with his wife Kathryn, Donnie has helped hundreds of World War II and Vietnam War veterans return to their battlefields – giving them dignity, healing and closure. He also provides support to active-duty service members transitioning to civilian life. In 2019, he received the NFL’s Salute to Service Award for his extraordinary efforts.
“It’s a tremendous honor to stand here aboard the Midway to accept this award,” said Donnie, who also reflected on his grandfather, a native American who served in World War II and was a Pearl Harbor survivor. “But this moment isn’t about me; it’s about service, it’s about legacy, and above all, it’s about gratitude. I’m just a small example of what is possible in America because of the men and women who raised their hands and swore to protect our freedoms. I’ve never taken that lightly. I accept this award for every veteran we’ve walked beside.”
“Together, Craig and Donnie embody the very spirit of patriotism, gratitude and service,” said Terry. “They’ve left the bright lights behind to stand in the quiet glow of service by dedicating their time and treasure to honor those who serve in uniform.”
Proceeds from the annual black-tie event benefit Midway’s exceptional elementary through post-graduate educational programs, including the “No Child Left Ashore” scholarship fund; “Leadership Academy” focusing on future generations’ character development skills; “Midway Institute for Teachers” professional development seminars; STEM curricula and leadership programs; and overnight youth learning opportunities for students aboard Midway.
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