ARLINGTON, TX – Following a White House ceremony where President Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to Master Sergeant Roderick W. Edmonds, Command Sergeant Major Terry P. Richardson, and Staff Sergeant Michael H. Ollis, the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation (NMOHMF) released the following statement from Cory Crowley, NMOHMF Executive Vice President:

“Today, the President had the distinct honor of presenting three new Medals of Honor to members of the United States Army. This powerful moment once again made clear that honoring the bravest among us is not a partisan issue, but one that unites us through treasured American values.

“At the height of WWII, while being held as a POW in Germany, Master Sergeant Roderick (Roddie) W. Edmonds, demonstrated unwavering courage to save over 200 Jewish-American POWs from the threat of execution. Even after the Nazi Commandant pressed a pistol against his forehead, demanding the Jewish-American prisoners be turned over, he fearlessly held his ground and protected his men.

“Then-Staff Sergeant Terry P. Richardson exhibited similar selflessness in Vietnam, when he braved intense enemy fire to rescue three of his wounded comrades and advanced alone up a hill to direct air strikes after his company was surrounded. Despite being wounded, he coordinated air support for seven hours. His courageous actions are credited with saving the lives of 85 of his fellow soldiers.

“Staff Sergeant Micheal H. Ollis gave his life for others. When his company came under attack in Afghanistan, Staff Sgt. Ollis disregarded his own safety to shield a fellow soldier who had been wounded and unable to walk. While engaging the enemy, he made the ultimate sacrifice when an insurgent detonated a suicide vest.

“Though their stories are different, all three of these men displayed remarkable selflessness that represents the very best of our nation. We are proud to be able to preserve their legacies at the National Medal of Honor Museum and inspire future generations with the power of their example.

“The addition of these three new Medal of Honor Recipients, along with the two honored just last week during the State of the Union, should serve as a powerful call for the United States Senate to take the final step toward establishing a National Medal of Honor Monument in our nation’s capital. This monument will serve as a permanent tribute to Master Sergeant Edmonds, Command Sergeant Major Richardson, Staff Sergeant Ollis, and the enduring values they epitomize.”

About the National Medal of Honor Museum, Monument and Griffin Institute  

The National Medal of Honor Museum, Monument and Griffin Institute is inspiring individuals by honoring and preserving the history of the highest military decoration awarded for valor in combat.  

The Museum, which opened on March 25, 2025, and was voted as the Best New Museum in America, serves as a national landmark located in America’s heartland in Arlington, Texas, and provides an unrivaled, interactive visitor experience that commemorates the historical thread of sacrifice, patriotism, and courage that connects members of the United States military service past and present. It is the Museum’s mission to tell the stories of Medal of Honor recipients in a dynamic and interactive setting that will inspire visitors to recognize the potential for the extraordinary that resides in us all.   

Through dynamic and far-reaching curriculum and programming, the National Medal of Honor Griffin Institute is bringing to life the core values inherent to the Medal of Honor in classrooms, boardrooms, and communities around the country.  

In 2021, The National Medal of Honor Monument Act was signed into law, paving the way for the monument’s placement in Washington, D.C. Soon, Americans and visitors of every nation will have the opportunity to reflect on the values represented by those whose selfless and courageous actions have served to safeguard freedom and democracy the world over.  

For more information please visit the National Medal of Honor Museum website or follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.