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Commemorating Heroism: National Medal of Honor Day 2026

On March 25, 2026, the country will pause to celebrate National Medal of Honor Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the bravery and selflessness of extraordinary citizens in the United States. This year, Medal of Honor Recipients will honor six remarkable individuals whose lives exemplify the essence of service, sacrifice, and courage—values that the Medal of Honor stands for.

The Citizen Honors Awards, presented annually by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, will take place at the renowned Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C. The Society, made up of 64 living Medal of Honor Recipients, aims to inspire future generations by highlighting the actions of everyday heroes who make significant contributions to their communities.

During the ceremony, hosted by Kagan Dunlap, each honoree will receive a Citizen Honors medallion, a symbolic gesture echoing the tradition of how Medal of Honor Recipients were recognized for their valor. This program serves not only as recognition but also as a platform to inspire other Americans to embody the same values of courage and commitment in their own lives.

The 2026 Honorees

This year's awards spotlight a diverse group of individuals:
1. Anderson Chase Childers (Posthumous) from Dallas, GA, who tragically lost his life while heroically rescuing five strangers from a perilous rip current off the coast of South Carolina.
2. John (Johnny) Wactor III (Posthumous) from Summerville, SC, who sacrificed himself to shield a coworker from armed assailants.
3. Victor Greenawalt from Minneapolis, MN, who demonstrated unthinkable bravery during a school shooting by protecting a classmate with his own body.
4. Dorothy Linson from Melbourne, FL, who for over 26 years has ensured no child or elder goes hungry in her community, establishing vital programs and support networks.
5. Cody Two Bulls from Oglala, SD, a young social leader who founded an initiative to provide essential supplies and support for children on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
6. The Jonas Babcock Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, recognized for their extensive volunteer efforts in honoring military service members and promoting community engagement.

Remembering Those Who Served

In a solemn tribute, Medal of Honor Recipients will also participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. This act serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless soldiers throughout history, honoring those who’ve given their lives for the country.

As President of the Society, Britt Slabinski, stated, "This ceremony underscores the importance of the values represented by the Medal of Honor. It is not just about valor but reflects the potential for extraordinary acts of selflessness that each citizen possesses in their daily lives."

Throughout March, Medal of Honor Recipients have been actively engaging in outreach and remembrance activities, culminating in a series of events leading up to National Medal of Honor Day. These activities have included participation at the New York Stock Exchange where they rang the closing bell and hosted dinners to raise awareness of their mission.

The Importance of National Medal of Honor Day

Established by Congress in 1991, National Medal of Honor Day seeks to instill appreciation for the courage of Medal of Honor Recipients, commemorating the date in 1863 when the first Medals were awarded during the Civil War. This day emphasizes that the Medal of Honor represents more than just recognition of battlefield valor; it symbolizes the dedication to promoting the values of service, integrity, and patriotism across communities throughout the nation.

The Congressional Medal of Honor Society, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Medal of Honor, strives to ensure that the stories of these heroes live on and that the values they represent continue to inspire new generations.

Conclusion

As National Medal of Honor Day approaches, it is a time for reflection on the acts of valor and the spirit of heroism that many Americans embody every day. The Citizen Honors Awards promise to shine a light on these extraordinary efforts, reaffirming that acts of courage and community service are vital to the heart and soul of the nation.