Heroes are not always the ones who wear capes or have superpowers. Sometimes, they are just ordinary people doing extraordinary things for the greater good of humanity. On National Medal of Honor Day, we honor those brave men and women who have risked their lives to protect our country and its citizens. Join us as we journey through history and uncover how this prestigious award came to be.

Honoring the Heroes: A Look at the History of National Medal of Honor Day

Introduction to National Medal of Honor Day and its Origins

National Medal of Honor Day is observed annually on March 25th to commemorate the day in 1863 when the first Medals of Honor were conferred upon Union Army officers. The Medal of Honor is the highest military award for valor and is given for conspicuous acts of bravery above and beyond the call of duty. 

The idea for a national day to honor Medal of Honor recipients was first proposed in 1989 by then-Congressman Bob Stump (R-AZ). In 1999, Congress passed legislation designating March 25th as National Medal of Honor Day. In 2001, President George W. Bush issued an executive order further establishing the date as a national day of observance. 

Each year on National Medal of Honor Day, ceremonies are held nationwide to honor the Medal of Honor recipients and pay tribute to their heroic sacrifices. At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, a wreath is laid in honor of all recipients, living and deceased.

Army Pvt. Jacob Parrott, First Recipient of The Medal of Honor

A Look at Notable Recipients with Descriptions of Their Heroic Deeds

-In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed a March 25 National Medal of Honor Day measure. The date was selected to commemorate the Union Army's first major victory of the Civil War, the Battle of Chancellorsville. on that day, six soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor for their heroic actions during the battle. 

-Since then, over 3,500 men and women have been awarded the Medal of Honor, including 19 posthumous recipients. The president awards the Medal of Honor in recognition of "gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty, in actual combat against an enemy of the United States." 

-Some notable recipients include:

-Audie Murphy: Murphy was one of the most decorated soldiers of World War II, receiving every military combat award for valor available from the U.S. Army. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 1971 for his heroic actions during the Battle of Holtzwihr in October 1944. 

-Harvey Barnum Jr.: Barnum was a Vietnam War veteran who served as a platoon sergeant with Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, and 7th Marines. He was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1978 for his heroics during a battle in Quang Tri Province in March 1969. 

-Frances Slanger: Slanger was a nurse during World War II who served with the 2nd General Hospital

Private First Class Jacklyn H. Lucas, A Medal of Honor Recipient and his history with Notary Publics

In August 1942, at the age of 14, Plymouth, North Carolina native Jacklyn “Jack” Lucas bribed a notary to create false documents, forged his mother’s signature, testified that he was 17, and joined the US Marine Corps. 

Private First Class Jacklyn H. Lucas was a Medal of Honor recipient who served during World War II. He was born in 1924 and grew up in the small town of Waco, Texas. When he was 18, he enlisted in the United States Army and was sent to fight in Europe.

During his time in the Army, Private First Class Lucas proved to be a brave and heroic soldier. On February 8, 1945, he saved the lives of his fellow soldiers by throwing himself on a live grenade. He sustained severe injuries but survived. For his actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.

After the war, Private First Class Lucas returned to civilian life. He became a Notary Public and worked as a loan officer for a bank. He also became active in veterans’ organizations and helped other veterans adjust to civilian life.

Private First Class Lucas died in 2010 at the age of 86. His legacy as a brave hero and selfless public servant continues to inspire people today.

Reflections on How We Can Honor All Veterans

Since the National Medal of Honor Day's inception, much discussion has been on how we can best honor all veterans. Some believe we should focus on those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, while others feel that all veterans deserve our recognition and support.

Regardless of where you stand on this issue, there are many ways to show appreciation for the men and women who have served our country. Here are just a few ideas:

• Attend a local Medal of Honor ceremony. These events are usually held annually in communities across the country.

• Support a veteran-owned business. There are many businesses out there that are owned and operated by veterans. Make an effort to patronize these businesses when possible.

• Write a letter or card to a veteran you know. A simple gesture like this can go a long way in showing your support and appreciation.

• Display the flag with pride. Old Glory is a symbol of our nation’s freedoms and everything that our veterans have fought for. Make sure to fly it proudly!