Medal of Honor
The highest military decoration of the United States, awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty.
Medals & Awards
History
The Medal of Honor was first authorized during the American Civil War in 1861. Congress made it a permanent decoration in 1863. It is awarded by the President of the United States in the name of Congress. Only about 3,500 medals have been awarded since it was created. The medal comes in three versions: one for the Army, one for the Navy and Marines, and one for the Air Force. It is worn around the neck and is the only medal placed higher than all others.
During World War I and World War II, many soldiers received the Medal of Honor for bravery in major battles. In later wars, such as Vietnam and Afghanistan, the medal was often awarded after the person died in combat, because the acts required to earn it were so dangerous. Each Medal of Honor recipient has their name added to the official roll at the Pentagon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Used In
Veterans Who Received This Award
Paul Ray Smith
How Did Sergeant First Class Paul Ray Smith Save 100 Soldiers at Baghdad Airport?
Sergeant First Class Paul Ray Smith sacrificed his life to defend his unit during a surprise attack at Baghdad International Airport, saving over 100 fellow soldiers.
Desmond Doss
Who Was Desmond Doss, the Unarmed Medic Who Saved 75 Men at Hacksaw Ridge?
Desmond Doss was a combat medic and conscientious objector who saved 75 wounded soldiers under heavy fire at the Battle of Okinawa.
Ralph Puckett Jr.
How Did Ralph Puckett Jr. Defend Hill 205 Against Overwhelming Odds?
Colonel Ralph Puckett Jr. led a small force of Rangers in a heroic defense of a strategic hill against massive Chinese counterattacks in 1950.
Gary Michael Rose
Who Was Gary Michael Rose and What Happened During Operation Tailwind?
Captain Gary Michael Rose was a Special Forces medic who provided life-saving care to his unit under intense enemy fire during the classified Operation Tailwind in Laos.