National Medal of Honor Day

National Medal of Honor Day

Every March 25th, the United States pauses to recognize its highest military decoration and the incredible individuals who have received it. National Medal of Honor Day is a solemn and inspiring reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication of those who went above and beyond the call of duty in service to the nation.

What Is the Medal of Honor?

The Medal of Honor is the United States’ most prestigious military award, presented by the President in the name of Congress. It is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have distinguished themselves by acts of valor. This means risking one's life in combat against an enemy force, often while attempting to save others.

The medal comes in three versions, corresponding to the branch of service:

• Army Medal of Honor
• Navy Medal of Honor (also awarded to Marines and Coast Guard personnel)
• Air Force Medal of Honor

Each design is distinct, but they all share one purpose: to recognize extraordinary acts of heroism.

The Origins of the Medal

The idea of a national military decoration recognizing extraordinary bravery wasn’t common practice in the early days of American history. In fact, the United States was hesitant to adopt military awards, partly due to a desire to distance itself from European traditions of royalty and knighthood. Early American leaders worried that medals might create a class of elite soldiers, which went against the egalitarian ideals of the young republic.

However, that changed during the Civil War.

In 1861, as the Union Army engaged in a prolonged and bloody conflict, Congress authorized the creation of a medal to honor Navy personnel who displayed “gallantry in action and other seamanlike qualities.” Just a few months later, the Army followed suit. President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation approving the Medal of Honor for enlisted soldiers on July 12, 1862.

Originally, the award was created for enlisted men only, but in 1863, eligibility was extended to officers. The first Medals of Honor were awarded that same year to members of Andrews’ Raiders, a group of Union soldiers who took part in the Great Locomotive Chase—an audacious mission to sabotage Confederate rail lines in Georgia. Their bravery, planning, and risk-taking behind enemy lines earned them the distinction of being the first-ever recipients of the medal.

The medal quickly gained significance and visibility during the war. By the time the conflict ended in 1865, more than 1,500 Medals of Honor had been awarded—some for acts of stunning courage and others (controversially) for less extraordinary deeds such as reenlistment or service in mass volunteer units.

In the decades following the Civil War, the criteria for awarding the Medal of Honor were refined, and a formal review process was established to ensure that only the most deserving acts of valor were recognized. As a result, in the early 20th century, a review board revoked 911 Medals of Honor that had been awarded inappropriately, including a large group given to members of the 27th Maine Infantry simply for extending their service.

This stricter process helped reinforce the medal’s integrity. Over time, it came to symbolize the absolute pinnacle of military heroism. It is not awarded for leadership alone or for being in a dangerous place—it is reserved for those who demonstrate conspicuous gallantry, often at great personal risk, and usually in defense of others.

Today, the Medal of Honor is not just a decoration—it is a symbol of character, sacrifice, and the enduring values of the American military tradition. Its origins may lie in the fires of the Civil War, but its legacy continues to evolve with every new generation of warriors.

Why March 25?

March 25 was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the very first group of Medals of Honor presented. On this day in 1863, six Union soldiers were recognized for their role in the Great Locomotive Chase during the Civil War—a daring raid behind Confederate lines.

This date serves as a symbolic reminder of where the tradition began and how it has endured.

Who Are the Recipients?

Medal of Honor recipients represent all backgrounds and walks of life. What they share is a rare courage and selflessness. Some have fought fiercely to protect fellow soldiers while under fire. Others have thrown themselves onto grenades to save lives. A few have led near-impossible charges or stood their ground when all odds were against them.

Notable recipients include:

• Audie Murphy, one of the most decorated soldiers of World War II.
• Desmond Doss, a combat medic who saved 75 men in Okinawa without firing a shot.
• Florent Groberg, who tackled a suicide bomber in Afghanistan, saving countless lives.
• Mary Walker, the only woman ever to receive the Medal of Honor, for her service as a surgeon during the Civil War.

These are just a few examples of the valor that defines the Medal’s legacy.

The Medal of Honor Today

While the Medal of Honor was forged in the heat of the Civil War, its legacy continues to grow in the 21st century. Today, it remains the highest and most revered award in the U.S. military—and it carries not just honor, but also an ongoing responsibility.

As of 2025, fewer than 70 Medal of Honor recipients are still living. Each is part of a rare and respected fellowship of heroes who represent the very best of the armed forces. Many of these men—there are no living female recipients at this time—were honored for actions in Vietnam, Iraq, or Afghanistan. They are often humble individuals who insist they were simply doing their duty, even when their actions clearly exceeded every expectation of courage and selflessness.

A Life of Service Beyond the Medal: Receiving the Medal of Honor is not the end of the journey—it often marks the beginning of a new chapter in service. Many recipients go on to dedicate their lives to community service, education, public speaking, and mentorship. They visit schools, veterans’ hospitals, and military bases, sharing their stories and encouraging values like integrity, commitment, and courage.

Some recipients also serve in advisory roles to Congress or the Department of Defense, offering insight into combat operations, veteran care, and national security policy. The Medal may be awarded for actions on a battlefield, but the people who wear it often continue leading by example long after their military careers have ended.

The Role of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society: The Congressional Medal of Honor Society, chartered by Congress in 1958, is the only organization composed exclusively of Medal recipients. Its mission is to preserve the legacy of the medal and promote the ideals it represents—courage, sacrifice, patriotism, citizenship, and integrity.

This society manages a vast historical archive and educational outreach programs, including:

• Character Development Program (CDP) – a curriculum for students in grades 6–12, focused on making ethical decisions and becoming responsible citizens.
• Medal of Honor Museum and Heritage Center – located in Charleston, South Carolina, this center educates the public and honors the stories of recipients.
• Video interviews and oral histories – many recipients have recorded their experiences for future generations.

These programs are designed not only to educate but to inspire—because while the Medal of Honor is awarded to the few, the values behind it are something all Americans can strive to uphold.

Recognition, Benefits, and Protocol: Medal of Honor recipients are granted a number of privileges in recognition of their actions and sacrifices. These include:

• A monthly pension, separate from any military retirement pay
• Special ID cards and eligibility for burial at Arlington National Cemetery
• Invitations to attend presidential inaugurations and other official state events
• Salutes from all service members, regardless of rank—a unique honor that reflects the deep respect for what the medal signifies

They are also often invited to military academies, leadership seminars, and national events to share their perspectives.

Continued Relevance in a Changing World: As combat evolves and new threats emerge, the criteria for the Medal of Honor remain the same: conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. Whether the battlefield is a desert in the Middle East, a remote outpost in the mountains, or a mission in a densely populated urban area, the stories continue to reflect the same core values.

In recent years, several awards have been presented after in-depth reviews of past conflicts, particularly for veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam who were previously overlooked due to racial or religious discrimination. These delayed recognitions serve as reminders that honoring valor must also include a commitment to justice and equality.

How to Observe National Medal of Honor Day

You don’t need to be in uniform to honor the meaning of this day. Here are some ways to show respect:

• Fly the flag – proudly display the American flag at your home or workplace.
• Learn about a recipient – read the story of a Medal of Honor recipient and share it with others.
• Educate others – if you're a teacher or parent, take a few moments to teach children about this powerful part of American history.
• Hold a moment of silence – take time to reflect on those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice.
• Visit a veterans memorial or cemetery – leave flowers, flags, or notes of gratitude.

National Medal of Honor Day isn’t just about medals or military protocol. It’s about the human spirit—about people who chose to act with bravery when everything around them screamed for retreat. It reminds us that heroes walk among us, often humbly, quietly, and without seeking recognition.

Take a moment on March 25 to honor these individuals and remember the values they embody: courage, sacrifice, patriotism, and integrity.

Because some stories should never be forgotten.

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