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Guides
Understand the Medal of Honor, American military decorations and how to honor those who serve.
What Is the Medal of Honor? History, Design and Criteria
How America’s highest military decoration began in the Civil War, what it takes to earn it, the three designs, and why it is called the “Congressional” Medal of Honor.
The processHow the Medal of Honor Is Awarded: Nomination to White House Ceremony
The step-by-step path of a Medal of Honor recommendation, the legal time limits, how Congress waives them, and why so many medals are awarded decades late.
FAQMedal of Honor FAQ: Answers to the Most Common Questions
How many recipients are there, who was the first, has a woman received it, do generals salute recipients? Straight answers backed by our archive.
BenefitsMedal of Honor Benefits and Privileges
The special pension, burial honors, travel, commissary and academy privileges that come with the Medal of Honor — and where to check current details.
GenealogyHow to Research a Military Ancestor and Find Their Grave
A practical guide to service records, pension files, unit histories, newspapers and gravesite locators — with the free sources genealogists use most.
CalendarMilitary Holidays and Observances Calendar
Exact dates for Medal of Honor Day, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, service birthdays and other days to honor American troops — this year and next.
Take actionWays to Honor American Troops
Letters, care packages, volunteering and trusted organizations.
DecorationsU.S. Military Medals in Order of Precedence
From the Medal of Honor to the Purple Heart.
StatisticsMedal of Honor Facts & Records
Youngest, oldest, busiest days and more.