National Medal of Honor Day was first celebrated in 1991. It was established by Congress in 1990 as a way to commemorate the 128th anniversary of the first Medals of Honor being awarded.
The Medal of Honor is the United States‘ highest military decoration. It is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by personal bravery or self-sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty while facing an enemy of the United States.
The Medal of Honor was created by President Abraham Lincoln in 1862. The first Medals of Honor were awarded to six members of the Union Army on March 25, 1863, for their actions during the Battle of Antietam.
This day is a time to recognize and honor the recipients of the Medal of Honor for their bravery and sacrifice.
Since then, the Medal of Honor has been awarded to over 3,500 recipients. The majority of Medals of Honor have been awarded for actions during wartime, but a few have also been awarded for actions during peacetime.
Who is awarded the Medal of Honor?
The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by personal bravery or self-sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty while facing an enemy of the United States.
The Medal of Honor, the United States’ highest military decoration, represents the pinnacle of bravery and self-sacrifice. However, Medal of Honor Recipients believe that these extraordinary qualities are not limited to those who wear a uniform. The ideals of courage, sacrifice, integrity, commitment, patriotism, and citizenship resonate with all Americans, inspiring acts of service regardless of profession or background.
Celebrating Everyday Heroes
On National Medal of Honor Day, the Recipients underscore this belief through the Society’s annual Citizen Honors Awards. This impactful program spotlights ordinary citizens who have embodied the same extraordinary values as Medal of Honor recipients. Through their selfless acts, these individuals have made profound sacrifices or performed remarkable service on behalf of their communities. Each year, the Society receives nominations from across the nation, and a panel of Medal of Honor Recipients carefully selects the honorees.
The Citizen Honors Awards amplify the message that heroism and service can be found in all walks of life. It reminds us that we all have the potential to make a positive impact, embodying the very values that the Medal of Honor represents.
How is National Medal of Honor Day celebrated?
On National Medal of Honor Day, the President of the United States typically lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. Other events are also held around the country to honor the recipients of the Medal of Honor.
National Medal of Honor Day is celebrated in a variety of ways across the United States. Some common ways to celebrate include:
- Attending a Medal of Honor ceremony
- Visiting a Medal of Honor museum
- Learning about the history of the Medal of Honor
- Volunteering with a veterans organization
- Donating to a veterans organization
Why is it important to celebrate National Medal of Honor Day?
This is an important day to celebrate because it is a time to recognize and honor the recipients of the Medal of Honor for their bravery and sacrifice. These men and women have put their lives on the line to protect our country, and we owe them a debt of gratitude.
National Medal of Honor Day is also a day to learn about the history of the Medal of Honor and the sacrifices that have been made by those who have received it. This is an important part of our country’s history, and it is something that we should never forget.
