Overview
The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration presented by the United States for personal acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. Living recipients of the medal are relatively few in number. As of the latest available count there are 65 living Medal of Honor recipients. These individuals represent a small, highly honored group whose service and sacrifice have been recognized at the nation’s highest level.
Distribution by conflict
Most living recipients received the award for actions in 20th- and 21st-century conflicts. The current distribution by theater includes recipients from the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and other engagements. The breakdown (from publicly reported counts) is:
- Korean War: 2 recipients
- Vietnam War: 47 recipients
- War in Afghanistan: 14 recipients
- War in Iraq: 2 recipients
Characteristics and roles
Living recipients come from multiple branches of the U.S. armed services and served in a variety of combat roles. Some continue to serve on active duty while others are veterans who have pursued civilian careers, public service, or advocacy. Medal of Honor holders often remain prominent in military and public ceremonies, education, and veteran affairs, frequently called upon to speak about leadership, duty, and sacrifice.
Active-duty holders
A small number of recipients remain on active duty. Among those reported as currently serving are soldiers Thomas Payne, Earl Plumlee, William Swenson, and Matthew Williams. Active-duty recipients may continue operational assignments, training, or leadership roles while also fulfilling ceremonial and representational duties tied to the decoration.
History, awarding, and notable facts
The Medal of Honor has been awarded since the Civil War era and its history includes awards made contemporaneously as well as medals granted many years later after review. Some medals have been awarded or upgraded following board reviews that examined past omissions or disparities. Recipients are often accorded lifelong recognition and special honors; their stories are preserved in official records, museums, and educational materials to illustrate acts of extraordinary valor.
Importance and public recognition
Because the medal is rarely bestowed and awards are carefully reviewed, living recipients occupy a distinctive place in American military and civic life. They symbolize exceptional courage and are frequently invited to participate in national observances, military graduations, and commemorative events. Lists of living recipients are maintained by government and historical organizations to keep track of the medal’s contemporary bearers and to help preserve their stories for future generations.