CNJ+ March 2025

U.S. History MARCH 25TH IS NATIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR DAY

By Lauren Kowlacki

National Medal of Honor Day is observed annually on March 25th to commemorate the creation of the Medal of Honor, the highest military dec oration in the United States. The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of the U.S. military who have demonstrated exceptional bravery and selfless ness in the face of danger. The first Medals of Honor were awarded in 1863 during the Civil War, and since then, more than 3,500 service members have received this prestigious honor. The medal is awarded to those who have demonstrated extraordinary acts of valor, selflessness, and heroism, often in the face of great personal risk. One of the most well-known recipients of the Medal of Honor is World War II veteran Desmond Doss. Doss was a medic in the U.S. Army, and he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and selflessness during the Battle of Okinawa. Despite being under heavy enemy fire, Doss refused to abandon his wounded comrades and continued to provide medical care to the wounded and injured soldiers. Doss’ bravery and unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers inspired countless others and cemented his place in the annals of American military history. His story was later made into a film, “Hacksaw Ridge,” which told the story of his incredible acts of courage and compassion in the face of danger. The Medal of Honor is a symbol of the highest ideals of the U.S. military, and its recipients are true heroes who have demonstrated exceptional brav ery and selflessness in the line of duty. On National Medal of Honor Day,

we take the time to recognize and honor these remarkable individuals who have put the needs of others before their own and made the ultimate sacri fice to protect their country and fellow service members. The National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas will serve as the premier national institution dedicated to the stories, impact, and legacy of the service members who went on to become Medal of Honor recipients. According to the museum website, the facility is slated to open in March 2025. “The National Medal of Honor Museum will enshrine the stories of Medal of Honor recipients for future generations,” Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark A. Milley said. Since 1861 when the Medal of Honor was established, 3,520 soldiers, sail ors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen have been awarded the nation’s highest award for valor. Their stories will now live in the Dallas area museum, Milley said. “Visi tors will come to understand the meaning and price of freedom.” The museum will also include an education center. Milley said he hoped that the recipients’ stories of valor will inspire the nation’s youth and moti vate them to be their best. The chairman provided some examples of those who received the medal. Retired Army Maj. Gen. Pat Brady served as an ambulance helicopter pi lot during the Vietnam War. He volunteered to rescue wounded men from

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MARCH 2025