National Medal of Honor Day

National Medal of Honor Day is an annual U.S. holiday celebrating Medal of Honor recipients in the military. It is on March 25. Soldiers risk their lives not for medals and awards, but for the great goal of protecting their country from the enemy. However, heroic deeds and merit should be rewarded!

History

The Medal of Honor is one of the highest honors military personnel can receive. That’s why we celebrate National Medal of Honor Day today.

The first Medal of Honor was approved for the U.S. Navy by President Lincoln. The event took place in 1861. Three years later, the first medals were awarded. At that time, the Civil War was in full swing. Awards were presented to six members of a Union squad who had engaged in sabotage activities and successfully destroyed Confederate railroad tracks.

The only alteration to the medal took place in 1904, but there were no serious changes to the original appearance. It should be noted that in 1965 a separate medal was created for the Air Force. There is also a third type of award: for infantry.

Interesting facts

• In 1963 a separate medal for the Coast Guard was also planned, but the idea never came to fruition.
• It is estimated that about 40 percent of Medals of Honor are awarded to individuals who participated in the Civil War.
• More than 3,500 Medals of Honor have been awarded to date.

How to celebrate

If you have acquaintances or friends who are Medal of Honor recipients, be sure to congratulate them. Learn more about the people who received this award.

Spread the word on social media. Let more people know about it!

When is National Medal of Honor Day in 2025?

National Medal of Honor Day is observed on March 25 each year.

Observations