ARLINGTON, TX – Following the presentation of the Medal of Honor to Captain E. Royce Williams and Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover during the State of the Union address, the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation (NMOHMF) released the following statement from Cory Crowley, NMOHMF Executive Vice President:

“The powerful moment in the House chamber during the State of the Union made clear that honoring Medal of Honor Recipients transcends party lines.

“In the skies over the Sea of Japan, Captain Royce Williams faced seven enemy aircraft alone in one of the longest dogfights in U.S. Navy history. He shot down four Soviet MiGs in an extraordinary display of courage and resolve. Kept secret for decades, his heroism is finally receiving the recognition it deserves.

“That same brave spirit was on display decades later when Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover flew into enemy territory under the cover of darkness. Despite his injuries and the continued machine gun attacks, he expertly piloted his helicopter to the landing zone, saving the lives of those onboard and ensuring the successful completion of the mission.

“These stories, though separated by time and circumstance, reflect the same uncommon valor and devotion to duty that define every Medal of Honor recipient. We look forward to sharing their stories at the National Medal of Honor Museum, so future generations understand the enduring importance of character, service and sacrifice.

“Bipartisan applause must now translate into bipartisan action. The Senate should move without delay to clear the final step for a National Medal of Honor Monument in our nation’s capital. That Monument will stand as a lasting tribute to Captain Williams, Chief Warrant Officer Slover, all 3,530 Medal of Honor recipients, and the timeless values the Medal represents.”

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.