Medal of Honor Day: U.S. Army Remembers Heroes
What is it'
Medal of Honor Day is now celebrated annually on March 25 to commemorate the first recipients. The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy that can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the military. The award, which was initially presented to six surviving members of Andrews' Raiders on March 25, 1863, is generally presented to the recipient by the President of the United States.
What has the Army done'
Sgt. 1st Class Jared C. Monti was the most recently recognized Medal of Honor recipient for acts of gallantry beyond the call of duty while serving during Operation Enduring Freedom on June 21, 2006. Sgt. 1st Class Monti posthumously was presented the Medal of Honor by the President of the United States on Sept. 17, 2009.
What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future'
To recognize all the Army's Medal of Honor recipients, an enduring memorial to the heroes is located in the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes. <a href="http://www.army.mil/medalofhonor/ " target="_blank">The United States Army Medal of Honor </a> microsite captures stories of recent Medal of Honor recipients, as well as history and statistics.
Why is this important to the Army'
This holiday is one of the our most revered because it honors the sacrifices, for many of the recipients the ultimate sacrifice, our Soldiers make to ensure our freedom above and beyond the call of duty. As we move into our ninth year of persistent conflict, we are reminded that our men and women continue to serve honorably, selflessly and courageously.
Resources:
<a href="http://www.army.mil/medalofhonor/" target="_blank"> The United States Army Medal of Honor </a>
<a href="http://www.army.mil/medalofhonor/monti/" target="_blank"> Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. 1st Class Jared C. Monti, microsite</a>
<a href="http://www.cmohs.org/" target="_blank"> Congressional Medal of Honor Society</a>
<a href="http://www.history.army.mil/moh.html" target="_blank"> U.S. Army Center of Military History </a>
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