Each year on March 25, the country pauses to pay tribute to the recipients of this prestigious award, whose actions serve as an enduring reminder of the courage and dedication that keep the spirit of American freedom alive.​
Image credit: cmohs.org/
"Above and Beyond" was written by MW4V Founder, US Army & Air Force Veteran, Musician/Songwriter, John Leonard Selzler, and recorded at DreamMedium AV Studio in Lakewood WA. It was performed and recorded by John Leonard Band - John (Guitar/Vocal), Bill Karle (Bass/Harmony Vocal and Bill Giffin (Drums/Harmony Vocal). The band recorded this version within one, three hour session, the day before National Medal of Honor Day, March 25th, 2025.
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The inspiration for writing "Above and Beyond" originally came to John several years ago when he had the pleasure, and the honor, of meeting Medal of Honor recipient, Wilburn Ross, who served in the Army during WWII.
John shared that - "With my MusicWorks4Veterans Project, I often played music for the residents at American Lake VA Hospital, here in Lakewood WA, where Wilburn was receiving care. When we played during our Music Nights, Wilburn would wheel right up in front of us and play drums on the table top. He loved music and really enjoyed playing along with us. He was so much fun to be around. But, playing there monthly, I often had the opportunity to visit with Wilburn, and hear more about his story."
While in Italy, during WWII, PFC Ross single-handedly held his position against repeated German counterattacks, as his unit suffered heavy casualties. Armed with only a light machine gun and under constant fire, Ross stood his ground for over five hours, firing until he ran out of ammunition. He refused to withdraw, allowing his company to regroup and eventually retake the position. PFC Wilburn Ross saved the lives of his fellow soldiers and turned the tide of the engagement. His actions earned him the Medal of Honor, which was presented to him by President Harry S. Truman in 1945 and he was later recognized by John F. Kennedy. Wilburn Ross retired at the rank of Master Sergeant.
"So, getting to know Wilburn Ross several years ago, is what originally provided me with the inspiration to want to pay tribute to all Medal of Honor recipients, with a song, but it wasn’t until National Medal of Honor day, 2025, that I decided to actually write "Above and Beyond"". Thank you to our heroes that fought to preserve our Freedoms."
- John Leonard
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