February 10, 1862
The first U.S. Medal of Honor was authorized by the Secretary of the Navy, Gideon Welles, during the American Civil War.
Washington, D.C., United States | United States Navy
On February 10, 1862, during the American Civil War, U.S. Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles authorized the establishment of the Medal of Honor, which would become the highest military decoration presented by the United States government. This pivotal decision was driven by the need to recognize and honor the exceptional acts of valor and bravery exhibited by Union sailors and Marines.
Civil War Setting: The United States was in the throes of the Civil War, marked by a series of battles between Union and Confederate forces. The war heightened the need for ways to incentivize and morally support troops.
Legislative Authorization: The idea for a formal military decoration had been suggested earlier, but it was officially sanctioned when Congress created the “medal of honor” in the act signed by President Abraham Lincoln on December 21, 1861. This specific act was originally for enlisted sailors and Marines.
Navy’s Role: Prior to this date, the U.S. military had no standardized way of recognizing heroic deeds. Gideon Welles, understanding the importance of such honors for morale and performance, acted swiftly under the legislative framework to implement this prestigious award.
Significance: The authorization of the Medal of Honor represented a significant shift towards formal recognition of military heroism, setting a precedent for military decorations in the U.S.
Expansion: Initially, the Medal of Honor was intended only for the Navy. However, its scope was broadened during the war to include the Army, solidifying its status as the highest military honor.
First Recipients: The first Medals of Honor were awarded on March 25, 1863, to six Union Army volunteers, and shortly thereafter, the first sailors and Marines received theirs.
The establishment of the Medal of Honor remains a landmark moment in U.S. military history. It institutionalized the recognition of bravery and sacrifice, complementing the broader efforts to boost recruitment and morale among Union forces. The decoration continues to serve as a symbol of the highest level of valor in action beyond the call of duty.
Source: www.cmohs.org