Medal of Honor Day: Saluting Heroic Actions

You may have heard of the Medal of Honor, but do you know what it’s awarded for? Follow along as we explore the creation and history of this famous military honor and the ways it is recognized today.

What is the Medal of Honor?

The Congressional Medal of Honor is the highest-ranked military decoration a servicemember within the US Armed Forces can receive. It is awarded to servicemembers who have performed courageous acts of valor.

When was the Medal of Honor First Established?

The US Medal of Honor award traces its roots to the American Civil War. In 1861, Lieutenant Colonel Edward D. Townsend suggested to Lieutenant General Winfield Scott that an award should be created for soldiers who demonstrated valor during their service. Scott chose not to implement such an award, but Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles picked up the idea.

A bill authorizing the production of the first 200 medals of honor for Navy members was passed on December 21, 1861, and signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln. A few months later, another bill was passed to create similar medals for the Army. 

The first six Medals of Honor were awarded to William Bensinger, Robert Buffum, Elihu H. Mason, Jacob Parrott, William Pittenger, and William H. H. Reddick on March 25, 1863. These men were awarded the medal for participating in the Great Locomotive Chase on April 12, 1862, during which 23 Union Army members and civilian volunteers commandeered a train in Confederate Georgia. The men drove the train toward Tennessee while damaging the railroad line behind them to slow down Confederate forces. 

In 1956, a distinct Medal of Honor design for the Air Force was created. There are now three different designs for the Medal of Honor: the Army, the Navy (including the Marine Corps and Coast Guard), and the Air Force (including the Space Force).

When is Medal of Honor Day?

Medal of Honor Day takes place each year on March 25 since its inception in 1991, when it was signed into law by President George H. W. Bush. This date was chosen since it was the same day in 1863 that the first six medals were awarded to the participants of the Great Locomotive Chase. Celebrations for Medal of Honor Day occur nationwide at military bases and cemeteries.

How Many Medal of Honor Recipients Are There?

According to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, 3547 Medals of Honor have been awarded to 3528 recipients. Only 61 of those recipients are still alive today. The most medals awarded for actions taken in a specific conflict was the American Civil War, totaling 1525. 

Throughout the history of the US Armed Forces and its branches, the Medal of Honor has remained a symbol of immense bravery and selflessness. From its conception during the American Civil War to today, the Medal remains a testament to the courage of servicemembers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty. As we celebrate Medal of Honor Day this year, take a moment to recognize those who have acted with extraordinary valor in service to our country and fly the American flag in their honor.