Today, March 25th, is National Medal of Honor Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of our nation’s Medal of Honor recipients.
The Medal of Honor is the highest military award bestowed upon members of the U.S. Armed Forces. It is reserved for those who have demonstrated acts of “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty” while engaged in conflict.
This prestigious award has a rich history dating back to the Civil War. In 1862, the Army Medal of Honor was established to recognize the bravery of enlisted soldiers. Over time, the Medal was extended to other branches of the military, with the Air Force receiving its own version in the mid-1960s.
Today, there are three distinct designs of the Medal of Honor, one each for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Marine Corps and Coast Guard receive the Navy design, and a U.S. Space Force Guardian would be awarded the Air Force version.
National Medal of Honor Day was established by Congress in 1990 to ensure proper recognition for these exceptional heroes. The date, March 25th, holds particular significance as it marks the anniversary of the first Medal of Honor presentations in 1863.
This day serves as a powerful reminder of the selfless acts performed by our nation’s bravest. We honor those who have displayed unwavering courage in the face of danger, putting their lives on the line to protect our freedoms.
There are currently 63 living Medal of Honor recipients out of a total of more than 3,500 throughout history. Their stories stand as testaments to the unwavering dedication and commitment of our service members.
Let us take this day to learn more about these remarkable individuals and express our deepest gratitude for their service and sacrifice.
