Historic Medal of Honor Awards by President Trump at the 2026 State of the Union Event

On February 25, 2026, President Donald J. Trump made history during the annual State of the Union Address by awarding the prestigious Medal of Honor to two remarkable individuals: Captain Elmer Royce Williams, a United States Navy veteran, and Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover from the United States Army. This monumental event represented the first time that such honors were presented during a State of the Union address, spotlighting extraordinary acts of valor in service to the nation.

President Trump’s announcement brought the total number of Medal of Honor recipients to an impressive 3,530, with 63 living recipients today. Captain Williams holds a unique distinction as the only living Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War era. Chief Warrant Officer Slover’s recognition also marks a significant achievement, as he is the first recipient honored for his actions during the Operation Absolute Resolve in Venezuela on January 3, 2026.

Captain Elmer Royce Williams: A Hero of the Korean War

Captain Williams’s story is a testament to courage and resilience. During the Korean War on November 18, 1952, then-Lieutenant Williams and three naval pilots were engaged in a fierce battle against seven Soviet MiG-15 fighter jets while defending U.S. naval forces aerodynamically near North Korea. Williams exhibited remarkable bravery over a grueling 35-minute aerial encounter, ultimately shooting down four enemy aircraft. Despite sustaining significant damage to his own jet from enemy fire, he displayed incredible skill in maneuvering his aircraft to protect the naval vessels below before successfully landing on USS Oriskany.

The extent of his heroism remained classified for decades, primarily due to its geopolitical implications. It wasn't until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 that the details of his gallantry were declassified, allowing for the acknowledgment of his courageous actions. Initially decorated with the Silver Star, Williams received an upgrade to the Navy Cross in 2023, paving the way for his Medal of Honor eligibility after legislative changes removed time constraints in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover: Modern Valor

Chief Warrant Officer Slover’s contributions were recognized for his extraordinary bravery during a critical operation on January 3, 2026. As part of the elite 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, Slover piloted an MH-47 Chinook helicopter in a daring mission aimed to apprehend the Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Under the veil of night, the operation turned perilous when enemy fire erupted from multiple angles during the helicopter’s approach to a fortified military compound.

In a display of unmatched composure, despite being wounded three times, Slover remained steadfast in controlling the helicopter and successfully landed it, allowing his comrades to continue their mission. His dedication and resilience were critical in ensuring the operation’s success, even as he underwent recovery for the injuries sustained in the line of duty.

A Legacy of Valor

The Congressional Medal of Honor Society commends Captain Williams and Chief Warrant Officer Slover for their extraordinary bravery and unwavering commitment to their duties. Britt Slabinski, President of the Society and a Medal of Honor recipient himself, praised both honorees, stating, "We are honored to welcome them into the membership of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. Their valor during pivotal moments in our nation's history deserves to be celebrated."
As we reflect on these heroic acts, it becomes clear that the legacy of bravery embodied by Medal of Honor recipients reinforces the values of courage and sacrifice that are foundational to the identity of the nation.

As the Medal of Honor Society continues its mission to preserve and honor these stories, it is vital for future generations to learn from these examples of heroism. With only a few remaining living Medal of Honor recipients, the significance of their experiences cannot be overstated, and the call to uphold their values is more crucial than ever.