Exclusive: A new bipartisan, bicameral bill would increase pensions for Medal of Honor recipients sixfold.
The bill, reintroduced by Texas Republican Rep. Troy Neals and Sen. Ted Cruz, and New Hampshire Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas, would increase the annual compensation for recipients of the nation’s highest military awards. The price will increase from $16,880 to $100,000.
Supporters of the bill say the compensation would ease the financial burden on medal winners who frequently travel across the country for speaking engagements at their own expense.
The bill would affect 60 living Medal of Honor recipients. Approximately 3,500 people have been awarded this medal since its creation in 1863.
President Biden awards Medal of Honor to seven veterans
Then-President Biden awarded the nation’s highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, to Pfc. Kenneth J. David during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House on Friday, January 3, 2025, in Washington, DC. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
The pension roll for Medal of Honor recipients was first created in 1916, and pensioners received $10 a month from the federal government. Monthly wages were raised to $100 in 1961 and $1,000 in 2002.
“I am proud to reintroduce the Medal of Honor Act to ease the financial burden on our nation’s Medal of Honor recipients,” Nehls said in a statement. “While we will never be able to repay the extraordinary deeds of these courageous people, we must do all we can to show our unwavering support and appreciation for their contributions.”
Former President Joe Biden awarded the Medal of Honor to seven U.S. Army soldiers. Six of the awards were awarded posthumously, and one attended the White House ceremony in person. Kenneth J. David – For actions in the Korean War and Vietnam War.
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Those who received posthumous honors were Privates. Bruno R. Orig, Pfc. Wataru Nakamura Corporal Fred B. McGee, Pfc. Charles R. Johnson, Gen. Richard E. Cavazos, Capt. Hugh R. Nelson Jr.
In May 1970, David’s company came under attack by enemy forces. David, then a radio telephone operator, engaged the enemy and drew gunfire from his fellow soldiers. He shouted, fired his rifle, and threw a grenade to distract them, but friendly helicopters swooped in to evacuate the wounded.
On Friday, March 3, 2023, at the White House, then-President Biden awarded retired Army Col. Parris Davis the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the Vietnam War. (AP/Evan Vucci)
“Our nation’s Medal of Honor recipients are heroes who embody the highest ideals of courage, sacrifice, and selflessness. They share their stories, inspire generations, and inspire the next American hero,” Cruz said. “We continue to serve our country by encouraging waves.” “However, financial resources for these activities are often lacking. The Medal Act addresses those shortages.”
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The bill has been introduced in the past two Congresses, but has yet to receive a floor vote. It is not yet clear whether the bill will be introduced to the House or Senate floor this Congress.
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