Medal of Honor

The Medal of Honour is the highest decoration awarded to a member of the armed forces for an act of extreme bravery in the face of the enemy, at the risk of one’s life and beyond the call of duty. It was established as a permanent decoration on 3 March 1863.

There are three variants of this medal: one for the Army, one for the Navy, and one for the Air Force. It is presented by the President in person.

Recipients of the Medal of Honour are granted certain benefits and privileges, such as:
- a supplementary pension, in addition to any other income they may have, amounting to $1,671 (2023 figure)
- an allowance for the purchase of uniforms
- permission to travel by air free of charge
- ineligibility for burial at Arlington National Cemetery
- the opportunity for their children to attend any of the country’s military academies
- regular invitations to presidential ceremonies and inauguration galas