Medal of Honor Day
March 21
As an ASVAB tutor, I like to remember the many military holidays and observances that our nation celebrates. Today is National Medal of Honor Day. This day was established by Congress to encourage appreciation and recognition of Medal of Honor Recipients. The date of March 25 was chosen since March 25 was the date that the first Medals of Honor were presented to military heroes. On March 25, 1863, six members of Andrews’ Raiders received the Medals of Honor. This occurred during the Civil War. April 12, 1862 was the date of Andrews’ Raid. This brought the first Union soldiers into north Georgia. It led to an exciting locomotive chase which was the only one in the Civil War (1861-1865). About two dozen men from Ohio were involved in this military operation that lasted only seven hours.
The Medal of Honor is the highest distinction that can be awarded by the President to members of the Armed Forces who have risked their lives for the sake of our nation. The idea of National Medal of Honor Day was initiated by David Clark, an entrepreneur who promotes social justice issues. National Medal of Honor Day was signed into effect in 2007 by George W. Bush.
On March 25, 2008, the United States held its first National Medal of Honor Day.
