On March 25th, National Medal of Honor Day, we pay tribute to the courage exhibited by the bravest servicemen and servicewomen in the United States military. Bestowed by the President of the United States, this distinction is reserved for military members who have demonstrated exceptional valor beyond the call of duty. The Medal of Honor is presented in three distinct versions for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with Coast Guard members and Marines also eligible for the Navy version. A total of 3,468 Medals of Honor have been awarded to those who tirelessly safeguard our nation, and today stands as the day to recognize and honor their exemplary service.

History and Origins of National Medal of Honor Day

1. Establishment of the Medal of Honor:

   • The Medal of Honor was first established during the American Civil War. On December 21, 1861, President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation authorizing the Medal of Honor for Navy personnel, and on July 12, 1862, the medal was extended to include Army personnel. The first Medals of Honor were awarded on March 25, 1863, to six Union Army soldiers known as "Andrews Raiders" for their actions during the Great Locomotive Chase in Georgia.

2. Creation of National Medal of Honor Day:

   • National Medal of Honor Day was officially established by Congress in 1990. Public Law 101-564 was signed by President George H.W. Bush, designating March 25th as a day to honor the Medal of Honor and its recipients. The date was chosen to commemorate the anniversary of the first Medals of Honor being awarded.

3. Purpose of the Day:

   • The purpose of National Medal of Honor Day is to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism of the Medal of Honor recipients. It is a day to remember their extraordinary acts of bravery and to reflect on the values of duty, honor, and country that they exemplify.

The Medal of Honor

1. Criteria for Award:

   • The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of the U.S. armed forces who have displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their own lives, above and beyond the call of duty, while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. The actions must be documented by eyewitnesses and thoroughly vetted before the award is approved.

2. Design of the Medal:

   • There are three versions of the Medal of Honor: one for the Army, one for the Navy, and one for the Air Force. Each version has a distinct design, but all feature a star-shaped medal suspended from a blue ribbon with white stars. The Army’s version is topped by an eagle, while the Navy’s features an anchor, and the Air Force’s includes the Great Seal of the United States.

3. Notable Recipients:

   • The Medal of Honor has been awarded to over 3,500 individuals since its inception. Some of the most famous recipients include Audie Murphy, the most decorated combat soldier of World War II; Alvin York, a World War I hero; and recent recipients such as Army Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta and Marine Corporal Kyle Carpenter, who displayed extraordinary bravery in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Observance and Traditions of National Medal of Honor Day

1. Ceremonies and Events:

   • On National Medal of Honor Day, ceremonies and events are held across the country to honor Medal of Honor recipients. These events often include wreath-laying ceremonies at memorials, special presentations, and speeches by military leaders, government officials, and Medal of Honor recipients themselves.

2. Medal of Honor Museum and Memorials:

   • Visiting the Medal of Honor Museum or memorials dedicated to Medal of Honor recipients is a meaningful way to observe the day. The National Medal of Honor Museum, currently being constructed in Arlington, Texas, will serve as a place to educate the public about the recipients' stories and the values they represent.

3. Educational Programs:

   • Many schools and organizations use National Medal of Honor Day as an opportunity to educate students and the public about the Medal of Honor’s history and the importance of military service. Educational programs, documentaries, and books about Medal of Honor recipients are often highlighted on this day.

4. Public Acknowledgment:

   • National Medal of Honor Day is also a time for individuals to publicly acknowledge the bravery of Medal of Honor recipients. This can be done through social media, letters to the editor, or by attending local events that honor military heroes.

5. Moments of Silence:

   • Observing a moment of silence to honor the fallen heroes who received the Medal of Honor is a solemn way to pay tribute. Many communities and organizations incorporate moments of silence into their events and ceremonies.

Significance of National Medal of Honor Day

1. Honoring Bravery and Sacrifice:

   • National Medal of Honor Day is a day to honor those who have demonstrated extraordinary bravery and selflessness in the face of danger. The actions of Medal of Honor recipients serve as an enduring testament to the courage and dedication of the U.S. armed forces.

2. Promoting Patriotism:

   • The day encourages Americans to reflect on the values of patriotism, duty, and honor. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel to protect the freedoms and liberties enjoyed in the United States.

3. Preserving History:

   • National Medal of Honor Day helps preserve the history of the Medal of Honor and the stories of those who have received it. By recognizing these individuals, the day ensures that their legacies are remembered and passed on to future generations.

Fun Facts About the Medal of Honor

• Youngest Recipient: The youngest Medal of Honor recipient is Willie Johnston, a drummer boy during the Civil War, who received the medal at the age of 13 for his actions during the Seven Days Battles.

• Only Female Recipient: Dr. Mary Edwards Walker is the only woman to have received the Medal of Honor. She was awarded the medal in 1865 for her service as a surgeon during the Civil War.

• Multiple Awards: Nineteen individuals have received the Medal of Honor twice. Notable among them is Marine Corps Major General Smedley Butler, who received the medal for his actions during the Mexican War and the Haitian Campaign.

• Most Medals Awarded in One Day: The Battle of Antietam, fought on September 17, 1862, saw the most Medals of Honor awarded for a single day of combat, with 20 medals given for actions taken on that day.

Conclusion

National Medal of Honor Day is a solemn and significant observance dedicated to honoring the extraordinary valor and selflessness of Medal of Honor recipients. By reflecting on their sacrifices and the values they embody, Americans can pay tribute to the courage and dedication of those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to defend the nation. Whether through attending ceremonies, learning about the history of the Medal of Honor, or simply taking a moment to remember these heroes, National Medal of Honor Day is a time to express gratitude and respect for the bravest among us.