This Is Why We Stand: Medal of Honor Day
Today is National Medal of Honor day. The Medal of Honor is the highest and most prestigious personal decoration that can be awarded to a service member in the United States military. It is said that this award is bestowed upon those who demonstrate the highest degree of valor, but this decoration means so much more than just that. 3,515 Medal’s of Honor have been awarded since the American Civil War. No experience in life is more humbling than reading the citations of the individuals who have received it. In my current studies for This Is Why We Stand, I came across these words in a citation, “In total disregard for his own life, he maintained his exposed position in order to engage the attacking enemy force.” In another, I read that a Sergeant, “established a final line and reorganized his men, not accepting treatment until this was accomplished and not consenting to evacuation until the following morning.” These phrases are a rarity in our world, but they are commonplace for those who have received the Medal of Honor. I would recommend anyone and everyone, from every walk of life to take some time today and read a few of the stories from any of these 3,515 service members, you wont regret it. Nine of the pieces that I have produced for This Is Why We Stand have featured a Medal of Honor recipient. Over time, I intend to write and produce a piece for every single one of these heroes. We are because they were, and we must not fail them. I never will.