Each year, on March 25th, the United States dedicates a special day to honor its most courageous service members with National Medal of Honor Day. For veterans, military families, as well as every day Americans, it is a day to reflect on the acts of sacrifice and valor that the Medal of Honor represents. Medal of Honor Day 2025 offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of this prestigious award, commemorate its recipients, and actively honor their legacy.
This guide explores the history of 2025 Medal of Honor Day, provides tips on how to observe it, and dives into the background and significance of the Medal of Honor itself. Whether you’re a veteran, a military family member, or simply someone passionate about history, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of this meaningful day.
History & Importance of National Medal of Honor Day
The Medal of Honor is widely revered by both military personnel and civilians alike. You don't have to have a military affiliation to know what the Medal of Honor is and what it represents. For the select few that have earned it and lived to tell the story of their combat experience, the Medal of Honor is an award that represents the values the military holds dear, but the medal is a sacred item that honors the memory of all of those who have fallen.
Overview of National Medal of Honor Day
The 2025 National Medal of Honor Day is dedicated to recognizing the heroism of Medal of Honor recipients, individuals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in combat. Established to pay tribute to their extraordinary actions, the Medal of Honor is deeply rooted in the country’s military history and serves to remind Americans of the sacrifices made for their freedom.
Importance of the Medal of Honor
The Congressional Medal of Honor is America’s highest military decoration, awarded only to those who demonstrate unmatched bravery and selflessness in combat. It is more than an award; it is a symbol of the core values of the armed forces, such as integrity, sacrifice, and courage. To date, fewer than 3,600 medals have been awarded, underscoring its exclusivity and the extraordinary nature of the deeds it honors.
History Behind the Medal of Honor
The origins of the Medal of Honor trace back to the American Civil War. Initially introduced in 1861 by the Navy, it was later adopted by other military branches. Since then, the criteria for eligibility have evolved, but it has always represented the highest standard of military service.
National Medal of Honor Day was officially established by the 101st U.S. Congress in 1990 and signed into law by President George H.W. Bush. The date, March 25th, was selected to commemorate the first presentation of the Medal of Honor in 1863, creating a clear connection between the award's history and the observance of its recipients.
When is National Medal of Honor Day Each Year?
National Medal of Honor Day is observed annually on March 25th. It is a day dedicated to paying tribute to all Medal of Honor recipients, both past and present. Naturally, it is a day to celebrate and recognize our friend, Medal of Honor recipient and U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Dakota Meyer.
We are very proud to have Sgt. Meyer as a USAMM brand ambassador not only because he is living history and the embodiment of military values, but also because he is a tireless advocate for veterans. He is the greatest battle buddy for the U.S. military. In fact, Sgt. Meyer worked with USAMM to create a documentary that focuses on the bravery of service men and women. You can watch the video on Amazon Prime.
Why is March 25th Considered Medal of Honor Day?
On March 25, 1863, the first Medals of Honor were presented to members of the volunteer Union Army unit "Andrews’ Raiders" for their daring raid to disrupt Confederate supply lines. This historic event solidified the date as a significant milestone in the legacy of the Medal of Honor.
How to Observe Medal of Honor Day
You might think that there is nothing you can really do to help celebrate Medal of Honor Day, but there are a few things you can do to mark the event. Below is a short list, but even something as simple as flying the U.S. flag at your home can show appreciation for those who have earned the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor Day Activities
Individuals and communities alike can honor Medal of Honor Day through various activities that highlight the bravery of the recipients:
1. Attend Public Ceremonies
Many cities host Medal of Honor ceremonies featuring guest speakers, parades, and memorial services. These events are often open to the public and provide a meaningful way to honor recipients.
2. Watch a Presidential Recognition Ceremony
For instance, you can view highlights of past presentation ceremonies like the one held for Medal of Honor recipient Sergeant Dakota Meyer, awarded for his valor in Afghanistan. After watching the ceremonies you can engage in meaningful dialogue about the Medal of Honor and Medal of Honor Day.
3. Visit a Medal of Honor Museum
Explore institutions like the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to learn more about recipients’ stories and the history of the Medal of Honor. On March 22, 2025, the National Medal of Honor Museum will have its grand opening in Arlington, Texas and tickets can be purchased online.
4. Support Veterans and Military Families
Consider donating to organizations that benefit veterans or volunteering time to support local military families.
5. Reflect on Their Legacy
Take a moment to read or watch recipient stories. Sharing their heroism on social media platforms can inspire others to remember their sacrifices. It can also inspire individuals to serve their communities and the nation.
What is the Medal of Honor?
The Medal of Honor is the highest award presented to U.S. military personnel for actions in combat. The award is presented to individuals who put themselves at great personal risk in conflict with an enemy force.
Origins & Creation of the Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor was first created during the Civil War to recognize extraordinary acts of valor. Over the years, its design and significance have evolved, remaining a symbol of America’s highest values.
Evolution of Award Criteria for the Medal of Honor
Initially awarded relatively freely, the requirements have become far stricter over time. For example, the youngest recipient to earn the Medal of Honor was 11-year-old William Johnston, a Union Army drummer boy who was awarded the Medal of Honor for carrying his drum on a multi-mile retreat from battle and then playing his drum to help raise morale once forces stopped their retreat. Today, recipients like my good friend Sgt. Dakota Meyer, must demonstrate acts of incredible bravery, often at great personal risk, that go beyond the call of duty.
Medal of Honor Ribbons
Each branch of the military has its specific design for the Medal of Honor and its accompanying ribbon. Presently, there are three variations of the Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor is steeped with symbolism, and it is a historic symbol of our nation’s bravest.
Out of respect for those who have earned it, its appearance has remained largely unaltered in more than 150 years. The U.S. Army and U.S. Navy have always had separate designs and until the U.S. Air Force introduced its design in 1965, all airmen received the Army design. The U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Coast Guard receive the U.S. Navy design.
In 1919, the Navy experimented with a second Navy design, known as the “Tiffany Cross,” to be bestowed on Naval personnel whose actions took place during armed conflict. Individuals whose actions did not take place during combat received the original star design. This two-design system created confusion and the Tiffany Cross design was not widely issued.
The Medal of Honor is the only U.S. Military medal that hangs around the neck. There are three variants of the Medal of Honor as previously mentioned:
- Army: The Army Medal of Honor features a green laurel.
- Navy: The Navy’s Medal of Honor is suspended by an anchor.
- Air Force: The Air Force Medal of Honor has wings and also has Lady Liberty in the middle of the medallion.
In addition, many state military forces award Medals of Honor to their service personnel for acts of bravery, but those should not be confused with the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor.
List of Medal of Honor Recipients
How many Medal of Honor recipients are there? Since its inception, 3,547 people have received the Medal of Honor. Here are some extraordinary recipients:
First Recipients
Private Jacob Parrott
Jacob Parrott and other members of "Andrews’ Raiders" were the first to receive the Medal of Honor in 1863. Their mission was to steal a locomotive that was critical for Confederate forces. Many of the raiders died or were captured and tortured.
Historical Figures
Lt. Audie Murphy
Audie Murphy, one of the most decorated soldiers of World War II, received the Medal of Honor for his courageous fighting during the Battle of Holtzwihr in France. Murphy killed or wounded at least 50 enemy soldiers that day in 1945.
In addition, the men interred in the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery are all Medal of Honor recipients.
Modern Heroes
Staff Sgt. Salvatore Giunta
Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta, the first living Medal of Honor recipient after the Vietnam War, was recognized for his valor in Afghanistan.
Sgt. Dakota Meyer
Similarly, USAMM Brand Ambassador Marine Corps Sgt. Dakota Meyer was also recognized for his 2009 valor in Kunar Province, Afghanistan. He fought against a force of more than 50 enemy personnel directing the evacuation of wounded and fallen personnel. Meyer made numerous trips into the ambush to kill the enemy and evacuate his comrades.
Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn Cashe
In Iraq in 2005, Sgt. First Class Alwyn Cashe gave his life to rescue multiple soldiers trapped in a burning armored vehicle. While not seriously injured during the initial attack, Cashe entered the burning wreckage multiple times to retrieve the men inside the vehicle. Once everyone was accounted for, he insisted that others get medical attention before him. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
Benefits of Being a Medal of Honor Recipient
According to the U.S. Army, receiving the Medal of Honor comes with significant recognition and privileges, including:
- A monthly pension of more than $1,400 per month.
- A 10-percent increase in retired pay, not to exceed the 75 percent maximum, for enlisted recipients who retire with 20 or more years of military service.
- A special Medal of Honor travel and identification card signed by the Secretary of the Army. This entitles recipients who are not on active duty and not military retirees to utilize space-available military air transportation.
- Uniform privileges which allow recipients to wear their uniforms at any time or place they choose, unlike other military personnel or retirees.
- An issued Department of Defense identification card for recipients and their eligible dependents who are not on active duty and military retirees. The card authorizes military commissary, Post Exchange, and theater privileges. All of the services, consistent with Department of Defense policy, authorize use of morale, welfare, and recreation activities, including honorary club membership without dues.
- Children of Medal of Honor recipients are not subject to quotas if they are qualified and desire to attend the U.S. military academies.
- Invitations to attend Presidential inaugurations and accompanying festivities. Military recipients and those who are civil servants have traditionally been authorized administrative absence instead of chargeable leave to attend.
- A special engraved headstone for deceased recipients of the Medal of Honor (provided by VA).
- Accorded on base billeting commensurate with the prestige associated with the Medal of Honor.
Honoring Our Heroes on Medal of Honor Day
National Medal of Honor Day 2025 is more than a date on the calendar; it’s a chance for Americans to reflect on the valor and sacrifice that have shaped the nation’s history. By observing this day and sharing its importance, we help ensure the legacy of Medal of Honor recipients lives on.
Whether you attend a local ceremony, share a recipient’s story, or simply reflect on their courage, every gesture contributes to honoring their legacy.
3 comments
God Bless Them ALWAYS 🙏
This absolutely covers a lot of territory. What a great honor to those who received this award. God bless the families of those lost in battle and God bless all recipients of the award.
Thank You. Didn’t know about this MOH day