On March 25th, we celebrate Medal of Honor Day. This day honors the courage of America’s service members.
History of MoH Day
A service member is awarded the Medal of Honor for “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.” It’s given to those who have performed acts of bravery that go above and beyond what is expected.
President Abraham Lincoln awarded the first Medals of Honor on March 25th, 1863. Since then, 3,518 medals have been awarded to 3,507 individuals. Most earn the medal posthumously during wartime. In fact, nearly two-thirds of all awards have been issued for actions during battle.
The criteria for receiving the Medal of Honor are extremely narrow. The only requirement is that service member risks their life above and beyond what’s expected while engaged with an enemy of the United States or in conflict with an opposing force.
Read more about the history here.
How to Observe Medal of Honor Day
There are many ways to show your support on Medal of Honor Day. One way is to simply take a moment to learn about and reflect on the heroic acts of those who have been awarded the medal. Another way to celebrate is to thank a service member or veteran in your life for their courageous service. Reach out and thank them service members for their sacrifice. Finally, you can donate to or volunteer with organizations supporting veterans and active-duty service members.
Medal of Honor Day is an important day to reflect on the heroism displayed by our nation’s service members. Take some time today to learn about the medal itself and some of its recipients. Consider how you can support those who serve our country courageously every day.
Other options for observing MoH Day include visiting the National MoH Museum or contributing to a MoH fund.
MoH Facts
Since the medal was first authorized in 1861, more than 3,400 Medals of Honor have been awarded to members of all DoD services . Twenty-five service members received it during Gulf Wars – a conflict that lasted from 1990 until 2001.
Nineteen service members have earned two Medals of Honor. Of those, fourteen earned commendations for two separate events.
Most states in America offer special MoH license plates. Earning one also bestows tangible things like health care coverage for life or educational assistance funds if they lose their job. That’s because the government recognizes how dangerous service members’ jobs can be on our country’s behalf.
Never say a person has “won” a MoH. They’re not “winners,” either. Service members earn a MoH and are recipients of the commendation. There are three specific versions of the MoH. The Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard all share a version, while the Army and Air Force have their own styles.
How to support the Medal of Honor mission
- Learn more about the Congressional Medal of Honor Society at cmohs.org or find them on Instagram |Facebook
- Participate in Medal of Honor Day on March 25 by sharing a recipient’s story
- Support veteran hiring and transition programs in your workplace
- Teach younger generations about the values of courage, sacrifice, and service
Medal of Honor Month isn’t just about recognizing history. It’s about keeping the mission alive for the future. Observe Medal of Honor March on We Are The Mighty here.