The hardest medal to get in the U.S. military is the Medal of Honor (MOH).
What is the Hardest Medal to Get in the US Military?
The Medal of Honor (MOH) stands as the United States Armed Forces' most prestigious and challenging military decoration to earn. It is bestowed upon members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, and Coast Guard who have distinguished themselves by acts of valor, often at the risk of their lives.
The Pinnacle of Valor: The Medal of Honor
As the highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor recognizes American service members who have performed extraordinary acts of gallantry and intrepidity. Its criteria demand a level of courage that goes "above and beyond the call of duty," typically involving extreme risk to life while facing an enemy.
This decoration is unique for several reasons:
- It is awarded by the President of the United States, in the name of Congress.
- It is the only U.S. military award that is worn around the neck, distinguishing it from all other decorations worn on the chest.
- Recipients receive special privileges and honors, underscoring its unparalleled status.
Unparalleled Criteria for Award
The rigorous conditions for earning the Medal of Honor make it exceptionally rare. The acts of valor must be characterized by:
- Conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity: Demonstrating remarkable courage and boldness.
- At the risk of life: The individual must have put their own life in extreme jeopardy.
- Above and beyond the call of duty: The actions must clearly exceed what is expected of a service member in similar circumstances. This often involves singular acts of self-sacrifice, leadership, or initiative in combat that directly impact the outcome of a critical situation or save lives.
For instance, an act might involve single-handedly assaulting an enemy position, drawing fire to protect comrades, or administering aid to the wounded while under intense fire.
Rarity and Exclusivity
The extreme criteria mean that only a very small percentage of service members have ever received the Medal of Honor. Since its inception during the American Civil War, fewer than 3,500 Medals of Honor have been awarded, out of millions who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. This low number highlights its profound exclusivity and the incredible sacrifices made by its recipients.
The table below summarizes key aspects that contribute to the Medal of Honor's status as the hardest to earn:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Awarding Authority | President of the United States, in the name of Congress |
| Core Criteria | Conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty |
| Rarity | Fewer than 3,500 recipients in over 160 years, across all conflicts and services |
| Symbolism | Represents the ultimate act of valor, courage, and self-sacrifice in service to the nation |
| Precedence | Highest military decoration, taking precedence over all other military awards and decorations |
Beyond the Ribbon: Special Privileges
Recipients of the Medal of Honor are afforded unique distinctions and privileges, further underscoring its supreme standing. These include:
- A special Medal of Honor pension.
- Special space-available air transportation.
- Ability to have their children attend U.S. military academies without nomination.
- Enhanced burial honors.
- The profound respect and admiration of a grateful nation.
The Medal of Honor is not just a piece of metal; it is a profound symbol of the most extraordinary courage and unwavering commitment to duty in the face of extreme peril.
For more information, you can explore resources like the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
