What is U.S Medal of Honor: Everything to Know

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It is bestowed on members of the armed forces who display extraordinary acts of valor and heroism in combat. Here's a comprehensive overview of the Medal of Honor, including its history, eligibility, and significance.

Overview

• Award Name: Medal of Honor
• Established: July 12, 1862 (during the Civil War)
• Awarded By: The President of the United States, in the name of Congress
• Eligibility: Members of the U.S. Armed Forces
• Purpose: To recognize acts of conspicuous gallantry and bravery at the risk of one’s life, above and beyond the call of duty

The Medal of Honor is often referred to as the "Congressional Medal of Honor" because it is awarded in Congress's name, but its official title remains "Medal of Honor."

History of the Medal of Honor

Civil War Origins

• The Medal of Honor was first authorized in 1861 for the U.S. Navy and later extended to the Army in 1862.
• It was created to boost morale during the Civil War and recognize acts of heroism that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Evolution

• Over time, the award's criteria became stricter to maintain its prestige.
• Separate versions were created for different branches of the military: Army, Navy (which also covers the Marine Corps and Coast Guard), and Air Force.

Designs and Variations

1. Army Medal of Honor

   • Features the "Minerva" head (symbol of wisdom and war).
   • Suspended by a star-shaped medallion.

2. Navy Medal of Honor

   • Includes a depiction of the goddess Minerva repelling Discord.
   • Distinguished by anchors on its design.

3. Air Force Medal of Honor

   • Includes an eagle grasping an olive branch.
   • Adopted a unique design in 1965 to distinguish it from the Army version.

4. Space Force

   • As of now, Space Force members are eligible for the Air Force Medal of Honor.

Eligibility and Criteria

• Extraordinary Heroism: The action must involve extraordinary bravery in combat situations.
• Risk of Life: The act must involve risk to the individual’s life.
• Witness Testimony: The act must typically be well-documented with witness statements or evidence.
• Approval Process:
  • Nominations are reviewed at multiple levels, including by military commanders and the President.

• The Medal of Honor is awarded to those who "distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their own lives above and beyond the call of duty," according to the White House.

The medal can be awarded posthumously to honor those who sacrificed their lives in service.

Significance

• Recipients of the Medal of Honor are seen as national heroes.
• It represents the highest level of courage and dedication in military service.
• Recipients receive lifelong benefits, including:
  • Increased pension
  • Priority access to healthcare
  • Special privileges for military travel
  • Burial honors at Arlington National Cemetery

Notable Medal of Honor Recipients

1. Audie Murphy

   • The most decorated U.S. soldier of World War II.
   • Awarded the Medal of Honor for single-handedly holding off an entire company of German soldiers.

2. Dakota Meyer

   • A U.S. Marine who received the medal in 2011 for rescuing fellow soldiers in Afghanistan.

3. Alvin York

   • Recognized for heroism during World War I, capturing over 100 enemy soldiers.

4. Mary Walker

   • The only female recipient, awarded during the Civil War for her work as a surgeon.

Interesting Facts

1. Revocations

   • Some medals have been revoked, particularly those awarded erroneously in earlier years.
   • For example, over 900 were revoked after an official review of Civil War medals.

2. Highest Honor Worldwide

   • Though many countries have high-level military awards, the Medal of Honor is globally recognized for its prestige.

3. Rare Award

   • Only around 3,530 Medals of Honor have been awarded since its inception.
   • It is considered one of the rarest and most difficult awards to earn.

4. Medal Protocol

   • Recipients are saluted first, even by higher-ranking officers, as a mark of respect.

FAQs

1. Who can receive the Medal of Honor?

The Medal of Honor is awarded exclusively to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who demonstrate extraordinary valor in combat situations.

2. Can the Medal of Honor be awarded posthumously?

Yes, the medal is often awarded posthumously to recognize service members who made the ultimate sacrifice.

3. How many women have received the Medal of Honor?

Only one woman, Dr. Mary Walker, has received the Medal of Honor. Her award was for her work as a Civil War surgeon.

4. Are there benefits for Medal of Honor recipients?

Yes, recipients receive lifelong benefits, including special pensions, healthcare privileges, and education benefits for their children.

5. Is there a civilian equivalent to the Medal of Honor?

No exact civilian equivalent exists, but awards like the Presidential Medal of Freedom are considered high honors for civilians.

6. Can the Medal of Honor be rescinded?

Yes, medals awarded in error or under false pretenses can be revoked. However, this is extremely rare.

7. What’s the difference between the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart?

The Medal of Honor recognizes extraordinary valor in combat, while the Purple Heart is awarded to those wounded or killed in action.

8. Can foreign soldiers receive the Medal of Honor?

While rare, foreign soldiers allied with the U.S. have received the Medal of Honor under extraordinary circumstances.

9. Are Medal of Honor recipients active-duty soldiers?

Some recipients are active-duty soldiers, but many are veterans or honored posthumously.

10. How is the Medal of Honor presented?

The President of the United States personally awards the Medal of Honor during a formal ceremony at the White House.