THE HIGHEST MILITARY DECORATION
Awarded by the President, in the name of Congress, the Medal of Honor commemorates those who have shaped our nation’s history and continue to inspire its future with their acts of valor, humanity, patriotism, and sacrifice.
Over 40 million Americans who have served in the US Armed Forces since the Civil War. Fewer than 4,000 have been awarded the Medal of Honor.
BESTOWED WITH DISTINCTION
Medal of Honor Recipients are the only individuals saluted by all ranks of the military—including the President.
As the only military decoration worn around the neck, the Medal of Honor has evolved since its founding in 1861. Today there are three variants, one for each military branch.
RECIPIENT CRITERIA
Recipients distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity, risking loss of life above and beyond the call of duty. The act of valor must occur in combat during 1 of 3 circumstances:
Criteria 1While engaged in action against an enemy of the United States.
Criteria 2While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing force.
Criteria 3While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.
THE STORY OF THE MEDAL OF HONOR
The nation’s highest award for valor and courage in combat, the Medal of Honor is awarded to those who never sought heroism, yet whose actions define it.
We do not go to war for gain or for territory. We go to war for principles, and we produce young men like these. I think I’ve told every one of them that I would rather have that medal than be president of the United States.
FROM RAILS TO ROTORS
Iconic machines have played a significant role in Medal of Honor actions since the Medal was first created.
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CONVERSATIONS: ordinary people, extraordinary lives
Step into one of our immersive theaters and have a conversation with one of three Medal of Honor recipients.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The National Medal of Honor Museum will open to the public on March 25, 2025. We invite you to follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter below for the latest updates!
There are actually several ways to connect with Recipients—through our interactive exhibits, events, and occasionally as Museum guests! Did you also know you can write them each a letter after visiting the Museum?
While many awards are given to the winners of an event or competition, the Medal of Honor is a recognition bestowed to those who have sacrificed and served above and beyond the call of duty. The Medal of Honor is earned, not won. Recipients often bear a heavy burden as it symbolizes all who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice.
Yes! Each Recipient’s name can be found on the Ring of Valor. In addition to the Exhibit Galleries that feature and rotate specific stories of each Recipient, guests will be able to find information on every Medal of Honor Recipient in in our online Recipient Database.
William Kyle Carpenter is the youngest living Medal of Honor recipient, receiving the Medal at 24 years of age.
The Medal of Honor has been awarded to servicemembers from every branch of the US military branch engaged in combat, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
One of the primary criteria for the Medal of Honor is individual acts of valor in combat. While Space Force is a branch of the military, it does not have a combat role. As a result, no Space Force service member has—or will likely receive —the Medal of Honor.
That said, the US Coast Guard, which primarily operates under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, is largely removed from combat, except under special circumstances. Douglas Munro is the only member of the Coast Guard to receive the Medal of Honor.
No matter how difficult it seems at the time, it’s easier to do the right thing than spend a lifetime regretting that you didn’t.