The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is a prestigious organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest award for valor in action against an enemy force. The society was established in 1946 by a group of Medal of Honor recipients, with the goal of promoting the values of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism that the medal represents.
History and Purpose
The Congressional Medal of Honor Society has a rich history, dating back to the early days of the Medal of Honor. The medal was first introduced in 1861, during the American Civil War, and was awarded to Union soldiers who distinguished themselves in combat. Over the years, the medal has been awarded to thousands of servicemen and women, from all branches of the military, for their heroic actions in various conflicts.
The society's purpose is to promote the values of the Medal of Honor, and to recognize the sacrifices made by recipients and their families. The organization also works to educate the public about the history and significance of the medal, and to support charitable initiatives that benefit veterans and their communities.
Membership and Activities
Membership in the Congressional Medal of Honor Society is limited to living Medal of Honor recipients. The society has a relatively small membership, with fewer than 70 living recipients currently affiliated with the organization. Despite its small size, the society is highly active, with members participating in a range of activities, including public speaking engagements, charitable events, and educational programs.
The society also hosts an annual convention, which brings together Medal of Honor recipients, their families, and other supporters to celebrate the values of the medal and to recognize the achievements of its members. The convention features a range of activities, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, and award ceremonies.
| Year | Number of Living Recipients |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 67 |
| 2019 | 71 |
| 2018 | 74 |
Charitable Initiatives
The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is committed to supporting charitable initiatives that benefit veterans and their communities. The organization has partnered with a range of charities and non-profit organizations, including the Medal of Honor Foundation, the Wounded Warrior Project, and the USO.
One of the society's key charitable initiatives is the Medal of Honor Character Development Program, which aims to promote the values of the Medal of Honor in schools and communities across the United States. The program provides educational resources and training to teachers and educators, and has been implemented in thousands of schools nationwide.
Impact and Legacy
The Congressional Medal of Honor Society has had a significant impact on American society, promoting the values of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism that are embodied by the Medal of Honor. The organization’s charitable initiatives and educational programs have inspired countless individuals, and have helped to preserve the legacy of the medal for future generations.
The society's members have also made a lasting impact on American history, with many recipients going on to become prominent figures in politics, business, and civic life. The Medal of Honor has been awarded to individuals from all walks of life, and has been recognized as a symbol of excellence and achievement in a range of fields.
Key Points
- The Congressional Medal of Honor Society was established in 1946 to promote the values of the Medal of Honor.
- The society has a relatively small membership, with fewer than 70 living Medal of Honor recipients currently affiliated with the organization.
- The society hosts an annual convention, which brings together Medal of Honor recipients, their families, and other supporters to celebrate the values of the medal.
- The organization supports charitable initiatives that benefit veterans and their communities, including the Medal of Honor Character Development Program.
- The society's members have made a lasting impact on American history, with many recipients going on to become prominent figures in politics, business, and civic life.
In conclusion, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society plays a vital role in promoting the values of the Medal of Honor, and in recognizing the sacrifices made by recipients and their families. By supporting the society's activities and initiatives, we can help to preserve the legacy of the medal, and to inspire future generations of servicemen and women.
What is the purpose of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society?
+The purpose of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society is to promote the values of the Medal of Honor, and to recognize the sacrifices made by recipients and their families.
How many living Medal of Honor recipients are currently affiliated with the society?
+There are currently fewer than 70 living Medal of Honor recipients affiliated with the society.
What is the Medal of Honor Character Development Program?
+The Medal of Honor Character Development Program is a charitable initiative that aims to promote the values of the Medal of Honor in schools and communities across the United States.
