Fox News' Johnny 'Joey' Jones Honored For Excellence in Journalism

Fox News' Johnny 'Joey' Jones

During Patriot Awards Gala on October 4, FOX News co-host of The Big Weekend Show Johnny "Joey" Jones was honored with the John R. “Tex” McCrary Award for his impactful journalism and advocacy. 

The 2025 Medal of Honor Celebration event was held in Chattanooga, known as the "Birthplace of the Medal of Honor" due to the 1862 Andrews Raid during the Civil War, where 21 Union soldiers earned the nation's highest military honor for sabotaging Confederate rail lines,

For Jones, a Chattanooga-area native, the honor carried special significance, connecting his personal roots to the city's Medal of Honor legacy. Jones' acceptance underscored themes of collective service, echoing his past remarks on awards like the 2021 Genesis Legacy Medal: "I’m not just being recognized for any one thing... but for the successes of a collective group of friends, family, and proud Americans."

A native of Dalton, Georgia (near Chattanooga), Jones served as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician during multiple deployments. In 2010, he suffered severe injuries from an IED explosion in Afghanistan, resulting in the amputation of both legs above the knee. Since his recovery, he has become a prominent advocate for veterans' issues, focusing on bridging the civilian-military divide. His books, including Unbroken Bonds of Battle and the recent Behind The Badge, draw from his experiences to highlight themes of resilience, service, and patriotism. Jones is also involved with organizations like the Boot Campaign and has been recognized for his efforts in supporting wounded warriors.

Other 2025 Patriot Awards Gala Honorees The gala recognized a diverse group of leaders: 

• Patriot Award: Former Secretary of Defense Dr. Robert Gates, for his decades of public service and leadership in national security.
• Bob Hope Award: Country singer and songwriter John Rich, for using his music and philanthropy to support veterans and troops.
• Distinguished Citizen Award: Philanthropist Kathleen Rollins, for her charitable work fostering community and patriotic initiatives.