What is the Medal of Honor?
Q: What is the Medal of Honor?
A: The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration presented by the United States government to a member of its armed forces. It is awarded for distinguished service at the risk of one's own life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an enemy of the United States.
Q: How many Medals of Honor have been presented as of September 15, 2011?
A: As of September 15, 2011, 3,476 Medals of Honor have been presented.
Q: How many Asian American recipients have there been?
A: There have been 30 Asian American recipients.
Q: Who was the first Asian American recipient?
A: José B. Nísperos was the first Asian American recipient; he received it for his actions in the Philippine–American War.
Q: Was there any discrimination against Asian Americans in awarding medals during World War II?
A: Yes; a study determined that Asian Americans were discriminated against in awarding medals during World War II and consequently 22 had their medals upgraded to Medals of Honor.
Q: Who was the most recent Asian American recipient?
A: Rodney Yano was the most recent Asian American recipient; he received it for his actions during the Vietnam War.
