Medal Of Honor Day

History and Establishment of the Medal of Honor

• First awarded in 1863
• President Abraham Lincoln inaugurated the Medal of Honor in 1861
• Instituted for the Navy and then for the Army
• Recognized outstanding Deeds of Valor performed during the Civil War
• Medals awarded in recognition of Deeds of Valor performed during the Andrews raid in Georgia

Criteria and Qualifications for the Medal of Honor

• Distinguished acts of Valor
• Risking life above and beyond the Call of Duty
• Only awarded to individuals
• Acts of Valor performed in combat and out of combat
• Recognition for exceptional bravery and selflessness

Significance and Symbolism of the Medal of Honor

• Considered the greatest individual achievement
• Shared honor, acknowledging the support of others
• Represents courage, commitment, and sacrifice
• Recognizes the love and action of soldiers
• Drives sacrifice, responsibility, and leadership

Statistics and Numbers of Medal of Honor recipients

• Less than 22 medals awarded on average per year
• Over 3,500 individuals have earned the Medal of Honor
• Approximately 40 million Americans have served in the armed forces since the Civil War
• A distinction that few will ever know
• Reflects the exceptional bravery of a select few

Honoring and Remembering Medal of Honor recipients

• Paying testimony to their deeds of Bravery
• Recognizing their sacrifice for the country
• Appreciating the regard and effort behind the recommendation
• Expressing gratitude and saying thank you
• Ensuring their deeds inspire future generations