Honoring Heroes: National Medal of Honor Day 2025
On March 25, 2025, our nation will pause to observe National Medal of Honor Day—a day dedicated to honoring the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of those who have earned the highest military decoration in the United States. At R. Riveter, a company founded by military spouses, we deeply understand the weight of service and sacrifice, and we are proud to recognize the courageous individuals who have demonstrated unparalleled valor in the face of adversity.
The History of National Medal of Honor Day
Established by Congress in 1990, National Medal of Honor Day is observed annually on March 25 to "foster public appreciation and recognition of Medal of Honor recipients." This date commemorates the first Medal of Honor awards presented in 1863 during the Civil War. Since then, this prestigious recognition has been bestowed upon over 3,500 service members who have displayed extraordinary heroism and selflessness in combat.
2025 Medal of Honor Recipients
In January 2025, President Joseph R. Biden awarded the Medal of Honor to seven veterans from the Korean and Vietnam Wars:
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General Richard E. Cavazos: Recognized posthumously for his remarkable bravery during a Korean War battle on June 14, 1953. Leading Company E, comprised mainly of Spanish-speaking Puerto Ricans, Cavazos' bilingualism was crucial in mitigating chaos and confusion.
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Private First Class Charles R. Johnson: Posthumously honored for his heroic actions during the Korean War, where he sacrificed his life to save fellow soldiers during an enemy assault at Outpost Harry in 1953.
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Private First Class Wataru Nakamura: Posthumously recognized for his valor during the Korean War.
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Private Bruno R. Orig: Posthumously honored for his courageous actions during the Korean War.
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Corporal Fred B. McGee: Posthumously awarded for his bravery during the Korean War.
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Captain Hugh R. Nelson, Jr.: Posthumously recognized for his heroic actions during the Korean War.
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Specialist Fourth Class Kenneth J. David: Honored for his valor during the Vietnam War.
These individuals embody the core values of duty, honor, and sacrifice—values that resonate deeply within the military community and here at R. Riveter.
Why National Medal of Honor Day Matters
This day serves as a profound reminder to reflect on the sacrifices made by our nation's heroes. Many Medal of Honor recipients faced unimaginable danger yet chose to act with unwavering courage to protect their fellow service members and our country. Their stories serve as a powerful testament to the price of freedom and the extraordinary character of those who defend it.
How to Honor and Remember
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Learn Their Stories: Take time to read about Medal of Honor recipients and their incredible acts of valor. The Congressional Medal of Honor Society maintains a comprehensive database of all honorees, allowing you to explore their histories.
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Support Veterans and Active-Duty Service Members: Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply expressing gratitude, supporting those who serve is one of the most meaningful ways to honor Medal of Honor recipients.
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Share the Legacy: Use social media to spread awareness about National Medal of Honor Day. Share stories, quotes, or personal reflections to inspire others to remember and appreciate these heroes.
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Participate in Local Events: Many communities hold ceremonies or gatherings to recognize Medal of Honor recipients. Attending these events is a great way to show support and learn more about their incredible bravery.
The R. Riveter Connection
At R. Riveter, we are inspired by stories of resilience, determination, and service. As a company built by and for military spouses, we understand the deep commitment of our nation’s service members and their families. Our mission—to provide mobile, flexible income opportunities for military spouses—is rooted in honoring the sacrifices made by those who serve.
This National Medal of Honor Day, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary courage of our nation's heroes and find ways to express your gratitude. Their bravery ensures our freedom, and their legacy deserves to be honored, today and always.
Join us in recognizing National Medal of Honor Day 2025. Share your thoughts, memories, or ways you’re honoring this day in the comments below or on social media using #MedalOfHonorDay.