The Medal of Honor is the United States’ highest military decoration, awarded for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty in combat. It has a long history dating back to the Civil War and is presented by the President in the name of Congress. Key points:
- Purpose and eligibility: Awarded to members of the U.S. armed forces who demonstrate extraordinary valor in combat. The Army and Navy/Marine Corps versions exist, with the Coast Guard and other services eligible in certain contexts; officers can receive it, though the vast majority historically are enlisted personnel. The award is strictly for acts of valor in combat, with a criminal-ease exception in the early Navy history that has since been limited to combat occasions.
- History and institution: Created during the Civil War era—authorized for the Navy in 1861 and extended to the Army in 1862—initially with broader criteria that evolved over time. It is the oldest U.S. military decoration still in use.
- Design and symbolism: The Army version features a bronze star with Minerva’s head, suspended from a ribbon bar inscribed “Valor,” topped by an eagle; the reverse bears references to Congress and the recipient’s name. The Navy/Marine version has its own distinctive imagery.
- Administration and presentation: The medal is presented by the President in the name of Congress, typically in a formal ceremony at the White House or another official venue. Historically, thousands of Medals of Honor have been awarded across all branches, with ongoing reviews and occasional posthumous recognitions.
- Modern context: The Medal of Honor remains the pinnacle of U.S. military valor awards, with stringent verification and review processes to ensure eligibility based on actions in combat. It continues to be a symbol of extraordinary bravery and sacrifice.
If you’d like, I can tailor this to a specific branch (Army, Navy/Marine Corps, Coast Guard) or provide notable examples and criteria used in contemporary eligibility determinations.
