What branch of service created the original Medal of Honor?
The Medal of Honor, one of the most prestigious military decorations in the United States, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. This article delves into the fascinating story of what branch of service created the original Medal of Honor and how it has evolved over the years.
The original Medal of Honor was established by the United States Army on July 12, 1862. It was created in response to the need for a way to recognize acts of extraordinary valor and bravery during the American Civil War. The Medal of Honor was initially intended to be awarded to members of the Army, but it has since been extended to include the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
The first Medal of Honor was awarded to Private Jacob Parrott of the 3rd U.S. Artillery. His act of bravery occurred on July 21, 1862, during the Battle of Second Manassas. Parrott was recognized for his actions when he voluntarily repaired a damaged gun after it had been abandoned by its crew, enabling his battery to continue firing and contribute to the Union victory.
The Medal of Honor was initially a silver medal, but it was later changed to its current design, which features a gold medal with a blue enameled ribbon. The medal’s obverse depicts Lady Liberty, while the reverse features the inscription “FOR BRAVERY.” Over the years, the design has been slightly modified to accommodate the different branches of service.
As the United States expanded its military involvement in various conflicts, the Medal of Honor was awarded to individuals from the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. The first Medal of Honor awarded to a member of the Navy was given to Acting Master’s Mate Matthew V. Redmond for his bravery during the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864.
The Medal of Honor has been awarded to a diverse group of individuals throughout its history, including soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines. Some recipients have become legendary figures, such as Alvin York, who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during World War I, and Audie Murphy, who was recognized for his bravery during World War II.
Today, the Medal of Honor remains a symbol of the highest level of military valor and bravery. It is awarded to those who have performed acts of extraordinary heroism or self-sacrifice in the face of danger. The Medal of Honor is a testament to the courage and dedication of the men and women who serve in the United States military.
In conclusion, the original Medal of Honor was created by the United States Army in 1862 to recognize acts of bravery during the American Civil War. Since then, it has been awarded to individuals from all branches of the military, serving as a lasting tribute to their extraordinary service and sacrifice.
