An "honors medal" generally refers to a prestigious award given in recognition of exceptional achievement, service, or valor. While many medals signify honor, the most significant and renowned "honors medal" in the United States military context, particularly when discussing acts of extreme heroism, is the Medal of Honor. This medal is the highest military decoration awarded for valor in combat.
Introduction to the Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor is the United States of America's highest and most prestigious military decoration, awarded by the President in the name of Congress. It is bestowed upon members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their lives above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States; while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.
Criteria for Awarding the Medal
The rigorous criteria for receiving the Medal of Honor emphasize extraordinary self-sacrifice and courage. Recipients must demonstrate actions that truly stand out, characterized by:
- Conspicuous Gallantry and Intrepidity: The deed must involve acts of extreme bravery and fearlessness.
- Risk of Life: The individual must have knowingly faced grave danger, putting their own life on the line.
- Above and Beyond the Call of Duty: This crucial phrase signifies that the action went far beyond what was expected or required, even in a combat situation. It implies a voluntary act of heroism that transcends the normal bounds of military service.
These stringent requirements mean the Medal of Honor is exceptionally rare, distinguishing its recipients as exemplars of courage and devotion to duty.
History and Significance
The Medal of Honor was first authorized during the American Civil War, with the Army version established in 1862 and the Navy version in 1861. Its creation aimed to recognize and commend soldiers and sailors for their most valiant deeds. Over the decades, it has evolved to include versions for the Air Force and a specific variant for the Coast Guard (though no Coast Guard personnel have received it for combat actions).
Key Historical Facts:
- Civil War Origins: Initially established to address the need for a formal award for valor.
- Evolution: Criteria have been refined over time to ensure its supreme standing.
- Symbol of Valor: It represents the pinnacle of military heroism and sacrifice.
The Medal of Honor is often referred to as a "Congressional Medal of Honor" because it is presented in the name of Congress, underscoring its national importance and the deep gratitude of the American people.
Types of Medals
There are three distinct designs of the Medal of Honor, one for each primary branch of the U.S. Armed Forces:
- Army Medal of Honor: Features a star with an image of Minerva repelling Discord.
- Navy Medal of Honor: Depicts Minerva, symbolizing wisdom and war, standing on the shield of the United States.
- Air Force Medal of Honor: Showcases a star with an image of the goddess Athena.
Each design carries the same weight of honor and recognition.
Rights and Privileges for Recipients
Recipients of the Medal of Honor are granted several unique privileges and benefits, reflecting the nation's profound respect for their service:
- Special Medal of Honor Pension: An additional monthly pension from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Air Transportation: Eligibility for unlimited space-available air transportation within the continental U.S. and between the U.S. and U.S. territories.
- Military Honors: Special burial honors and the right to have their name entered on the Medal of Honor Roll.
- Salute: All members of the armed forces, including the President of the United States, are required to salute a Medal of Honor recipient.
- Distinguished Status: Enhanced prestige and respect in both military and civilian life.
- Academy Appointments: Children of recipients are eligible for appointment to the U.S. military academies without regard to quota limitations.
- Special Identification Card: Recipients receive a special identification card granting them commissary and exchange privileges.
Notable Recipients
Throughout history, only a select few have been awarded this ultimate honor. Each recipient's story is a testament to extraordinary courage. Examples include:
- Audie Murphy: The most decorated American combat soldier of World War II.
- Desmond Doss: A conscientious objector who, without carrying a weapon, saved 75 men during the Battle of Okinawa.
- Salvatore Giunta: The first living recipient of the Medal of Honor since the Vietnam War.
For more information, visit the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
