The Medal of Honor was introduced during the American Civil War and is the highest military decoration presented by the United States government to a member of its armed forces. The recipient must have distinguished themselves at the risk of their own life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an enemy of the United States. Due to the nature of this medal, it is commonly presented posthumously.
World War II
Image Name Rank Branch Unit Place of action Date of action Notes/Reference*Private first classMarine Corps4th Battalion, 15th Marines6th Marine DivisionRyūkyū Chain, OkinawaSacrificed his life to smother a grenade with his body*PrivateArmy507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 17th Airborne DivisionWesel, GermanySingle-handedly attacked a German machine gun emplacement
Korean War
Image Name Rank Branch Unit Place of action Date of action Notes/Reference*SergeantUnited States Army7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Divisionnear Chich-on, KoreaVoluntarily remained in an exposed position and covered the platoon's withdrawal
See also List of Portuguese Americans List of Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients
References