The Medal of Honor is authorized by the United States Congress.

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. It is presented to members of the armed forces who have distinguished themselves through acts of valor and heroism, often at the risk of their own lives, above and beyond the call of duty.

History: The Medal of Honor was first established during the American Civil War in 1861 for the Navy and in 1862 for the Army.

Criteria: Recipients must display extraordinary bravery and selflessness during combat against an enemy of the United States. The actions must be well-documented and confirmed by eyewitness accounts.

Presentation: The medal is awarded in the name of the United States Congress, hence it is sometimes referred to as the “Congressional Medal of Honor.” However, its official name remains the Medal of Honor.

Design: There are three different designs of the Medal of Honor for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, each featuring a distinctive shape and imagery. The medal includes a star suspended from a ribbon with a light blue field and 13 white stars.

Recipients: Since its inception, fewer than 3,600 Medals of Honor have been awarded. Recipients are recognized for their extraordinary acts and often receive the medal in a formal ceremony, typically presented by the President of the United States.

Privileges and Honors: Medal of Honor recipients receive special privileges, including higher military pensions, invitations to presidential inaugurations, and the ability to be saluted by other service members regardless of rank.

Citations: Each Medal of Honor comes with a citation detailing the actions that warranted the award, providing a narrative of the heroism displayed.