The Medal of Honor is the most distinguished military honor that the United States government may bestow. It is awarded to acknowledged American soldiers, sailors, marines, Siemens, guardians, and coastguardsmen for acts of courage. Since its creation in 1863, the Medal of Honor has grown to be the highest military decoration bestowed upon Americans (Price, 2019). The President of the United States often bestows the Congressional Medal of Honor to those who have dedicated themselves to their duty until the very end of their life.
The Medal of Honor was created by the United States of America during the American Civil War. The highest military honor an American serviceman can get is this one (Price, 2019). The honor is granted to someone who has shown distinction while doing their tasks and endangering their own life. John Baca, serving in South Vietnam in 1970, was a courageous individual. He belonged to the 12th Cavalry Regiment’s 1st Battalion. On February 10, 1970, Baca was a rifleman when the military unit was ambushed during Operation Toan Thang IV. This brave soldier, leading by example, fended off the vicious barrage (Zenji, 2020). Baca survived despite receiving serious wounds.
On March 2, 1971, Baca received the Medal of Honor from President Richard Nixon for his outstanding service; Baca is a good example of ultimate selflessness. The next generation of troops is inspired by his valor on the battlefield to put their lives in danger for their country and mankind (Friedel & Baetz, 2022). His sense of accountability makes him feel proud and motivates him to behave fearlessly in tough and dangerous situations.
The Congressional Medal of Honor is the highest military honor given to members of the United States military for acts of courage in battle. It serves as a reminder of the costs paid by American military personnel in defending their country and is a symbol of bravery, selflessness, and patriotism (Lord, 2020). Receiving this honor is a distinction reserved for a select few who have shown great fortitude and bravery in the face of the most difficult situations. The Congressional Medal of Honor is a beloved symbol of American military personnel’s sacrifices and serves as a lasting monument to their service and valor.
References
Friedel, M. K., & Baetz, J. (2022). The Los Seis de Boulder Sculpture Project: A Case Study of Socially Engaged Archivist/Artist Collaboration at the University of Colorado Boulder. Journal of Western Archives, 13(1), 1. Web.
Lord, M. J. (2020). Book Review: The Medal of Honor: The Evolution of America’s Highest Military Decoration. War in History, 27(4), 719-721. Web.
Price, J. M. (2019). The Medal of Honor: The Evolution of America’s Highest Military Decoration. Web.
Zenji, V. S. (2020). No More Having Your Cake and Eating It Too: The Nixon Doctrine, South Korea, and the Vietnam War (Doctoral dissertation, Chapman University).