Larry Pickett, Jr. is a cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point, a standout student-athlete, and the founding inspiration for The Larry Pickett Foundation. A 2023 graduate of Enloe High School, LJ was a leader on and off the field, serving as a varsity football team captain and an honor student. He currently serves as a safety for the Army Black Knights, carrying his leadership into his collegiate career while embodying the West Point values of Duty, Honor, Country.

The Heart of a Hero Larry gained national recognition for his extraordinary bravery in August 2025. While driving with his family, he and his father, Larry Pickett, Sr., came upon a severe single-vehicle accident. Despite downed power lines and a vehicle rapidly catching fire, Larry and his father rushed to the car and pulled an unresponsive driver to safety just moments before the vehicle was engulfed in flames.

In recognition of his selfless courage, Larry was honored on February 5, 2026, in Philadelphia, with the Four Chaplains Charles W. David Jr. Legion of Honor Gold Life Saver Medallion. This prestigious award is one of the highest honors bestowed by the Chapel of Four Chaplains and is recognized by all branches of the United States Armed Forces. The medallion is named in honor of Coast Guardsman Charles W. David Jr., who sacrificed his life to save 93 shipmates during the sinking of the USAT Dorchester in 1943—the single largest loss of life for a U.S. convoy during World War II. By receiving this award, Larry is inducted into an elite lineage of individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary gallantry and a “no greater love” commitment to their fellow man. This rare honor serves as a bridge between Larry’s personal bravery and the historic military traditions of selfless service.

Building upon this record of gallantry, Larry is scheduled for induction into the Legion of Valor of the United States of America on October 24, 2026. During this historic ceremony, he will be awarded the Silver Cross for Valor, the highest honor bestowed by the nation’s oldest veteran service organization. Founded in 1890 by recipients of the Medal of Honor, the Legion of Valor reserves the Silver Cross for individuals who perform heroic acts involving “great personal danger” and conspicuous acts of valor. This rare induction, occurring alongside his father, marks Larry as a recipient of one of the most significant civilian bravery awards in the United States, placing him in the company of the nation’s most storied heroes. For a West Point Cadet, this recognition represents a profound alignment with the Academy’s legacy of valor and the “Selfless Service” expected of America’s future military leaders.

His commendations for extraordinary bravery also include:

• Legion of Valor Silver Cross for Valor (Induction: October 24, 2026)

• The Four Chaplains Charles W. David Jr. Gold Life Saver Medallion (Awarded: Feb 5, 2026)

• The Heroism Patriot Award at the 2025 Patriot Awards

• A Formal Commendation from Orange County Sheriff Paul Arleta and Highland Falls Mayor Frank DiSalvo (October 2025)

• Official proclamation of December 10, 2025, as “Larry Pickett Day” in Raleigh, NC

• Nomination for the 2025 Capital One Orange Bowl-FWAA Courage Award

Foundational Legacy & Compliance The Larry Pickett Foundation was established by the Pickett family to ensure that the spirit of selfless service demonstrated during that 2025 rescue becomes a permanent legacy of impact. Larry serves in a purely honorary and non-compensated capacity as a Co-Founder, providing the visionary heart for the organization’s mission. Consistent with his commitments as a cadet and student-athlete, Larry’s involvement is limited to volunteer advisory and heritage support. He holds no operational, fiduciary, or executive authority over foundation assets, nor does he receive any financial benefit, salary, or compensation for his role. His primary mission remains his academic and athletic journey at the United States Military Academy, where he continues to represent the highest standards of athletics and military service.

Faith and Service Faith is the cornerstone of LJ’s life. Growing up in Raleigh, he serves as a Youth Ambassador and Technical Assistant at Word of God Fellowship Church, where his parents serve as Elders. His commitment to service extended across borders, including an international mission trip to Mexico to build homes for those in need. Locally, he has served as a Youth Ambassador for the Marbles Kids Museum and is consistently seeking opportunities to uplift his community.

Larry is the son of Larry and Shawnonne Pickett and the brother of Lauren and Olivia. He remains dedicated to a life of “selfless service,” bridging the gap between his military training at West Point and the global impact inspired by his actions.