The first Medal of Honor, our nations highest award for valor, was presented on March 25, 1863. In recognition of this esteemed decoration’s values and its recipients, the 110th Congress has passed, by a unanimous vote, a concurrent resolution to declare March 25 National Medal of Honor Day.
To celebrate this historic occasion and announce National Medal of Honor Day to the nation, a photographic exhibition entitled "Visions of Valor" by renowned photographer Nick Del Calzo, was unveiled in the Russell Rotunda. Dignitaries, along with prominent members of Congress and the Military, were on hand to celebrate and salute the 31 living Medal of Honor recipients in attendance.
"We are thrilled that Congress has recognized the important legacy of recipients of the Medal of Honor and of all members of the Armed Forces," said Nick Kehoe, President of the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation. "An annual, national day of recognition is an excellent way to remember these American heroes and foster public appreciation for the important values these veterans represent."
"The Medal of Honor and those who wear it represent the values of courage, sacrifice, selfless service and patriotism," added David J. McIntyre, Jr., President and CEO of TriWest Healthcare Alliance and a member of the Foundation's board of directors. "We've encouraged Congress to recognize these brave Americans with a day of reflection because it helps all of us appreciate the extraordinary sacrifices made by those who serve, as well as their families, in order to secure freedom for all."
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