The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration in the US, awarded for exceptional bravery. Over 3,400 people have received it since its establishment during the Civil War. Recipients are entitled to special benefits and are usually greeted with respect. It is presented by the President and cannot be sold or duplicated.
The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration of the United States. Over 3,400 military personnel have been awarded the Medal of Honor since this military decoration was established during the Civil War. Recipients are entitled to special benefits from the United States military, including guaranteed admission to the military academy for their children, and by convention, are usually greeted by all ranks of the military and introduced first to social situations as a sign of respect.
This military decoration was established in 1862 by an act of Congress. Because the Medal of Honor is awarded “in the name of Congress,” people sometimes erroneously refer to it as the Congressional Medal of Honor. There are three different versions of the decoration: one for the Army, one for the Navy and one for the Air Force. Decorated members of the Marines and Coast Guard wear the Navy version of the medal. The designs have changed several times since the decoration was introduced.
Recipients are chosen for their exceptional bravery, which goes above and beyond the call of duty. In addition to being recognized for bravery in direct engagements, individuals may also be decorated for bravery when working on joint missions with allies. Due to the nature of the award, many of the recipients have been posthumous. In 19 cases, the Medal of Honor was awarded twice.
In all of the decoration’s history, only one woman, Mary Walker, has received the award. She was honored for her bravery at the Battle of Bull Run in 1861, and the honor was briefly revoked in the 20th century before being restored by President Jimmy Carter. Because service women are ineligible to serve in many combat positions, they are often considered ineligible for decorations for valor, even when they demonstrate remarkable bravery and composure under fire.
As the highest military award available to Americans, the medal is considered a major event in a recipient’s life. The award is presented by the President of the United States, and in the case of posthumous recipients, the President presents the award to surviving family members, along with the Medal of Honor Flag. Federal law prohibits individuals from selling the award, making duplications, or wearing the medal when one has not been awarded. People who violate these laws can be subject to fines and jail time.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
