Tag Archives: The Philadelphia Mint

this day in the yesteryear: Medal of Honor Authorized by US Congress (1862)


Medal of Honor Authorized by US Congress (1862)

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the US. It is presented by the president for “gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of…life above and beyond the call of duty” while engaged in an action against an enemy. Members of all branches of the US military are eligible to receive the medal, but each branch has its own special design. The Philadelphia Mint designed the medal, which was first awarded during the Civil War. How many soldiers have received the medal twice? More… Discuss