President Trump Signs Bill Boosting Medal of Honor Recipients' Pension to $5,625 Monthly
In a significant move aimed at alleviating financial burdens on America's most decorated veterans, President Donald Trump has signed into law the Monetary Enhancement for Distinguished Active Legends, or MEDAL Act. The new bill increases the monthly pension for Medal of Honor recipients from $1,489.73 to $5,625 β equivalent to about $67,500 annually.
The increased stipend is intended to cover the costs associated with traveling to appearances and other events where expenses are not always covered. This change aims to show genuine gratitude towards these extraordinary individuals who have demonstrated unwavering bravery and selflessness during their service.
Several lawmakers, including Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Rep. Troy Nehls (R-TX), played key roles in shaping the bill. They argued that Medal of Honor recipients often spend considerable time traveling across the country to share their stories, inspire future generations of heroes, and deserve our respect and support.
The origins of the Medal of Honor date back to the American Civil War, when Senator James W. Crimes introduced a bill promoting the efficiency of the Navy by awarding medals for valor. Since its inception, the Medal of Honor has become the supreme honor in the U.S. military, awarded to soldiers from all branches and ranks.
The bill also highlights the long history of providing stipends to Medal of Honor recipients. Initially set at $10 monthly in 1916, the amount increased to $100 in 1961 and eventually rose to $1,000 per month in 2002. Since then, lawmakers have continued to raise the pension based on inflationary adjustments.
Notably, recipients of the Medal of Honor face limited financial opportunities compared to Olympic athletes or professional sports figures. While they can earn income from speaking engagements, book sales, and other civilian pursuits, these earnings pale in comparison to those of high-profile athletes.
In addition to the MEDAL Act, President Biden recently awarded six posthumous Medals of Honor to fallen service members. The ceremony highlighted the president's commitment to honoring America's heroes who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.
With this legislation, the U.S. government is taking a significant step in recognizing the sacrifices made by Medal of Honor recipients. By providing increased financial support, we can ensure that these extraordinary individuals are cared for, respected, and supported as they continue to share their stories and inspire future generations of heroes.
In a significant move aimed at alleviating financial burdens on America's most decorated veterans, President Donald Trump has signed into law the Monetary Enhancement for Distinguished Active Legends, or MEDAL Act. The new bill increases the monthly pension for Medal of Honor recipients from $1,489.73 to $5,625 β equivalent to about $67,500 annually.
The increased stipend is intended to cover the costs associated with traveling to appearances and other events where expenses are not always covered. This change aims to show genuine gratitude towards these extraordinary individuals who have demonstrated unwavering bravery and selflessness during their service.
Several lawmakers, including Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Rep. Troy Nehls (R-TX), played key roles in shaping the bill. They argued that Medal of Honor recipients often spend considerable time traveling across the country to share their stories, inspire future generations of heroes, and deserve our respect and support.
The origins of the Medal of Honor date back to the American Civil War, when Senator James W. Crimes introduced a bill promoting the efficiency of the Navy by awarding medals for valor. Since its inception, the Medal of Honor has become the supreme honor in the U.S. military, awarded to soldiers from all branches and ranks.
The bill also highlights the long history of providing stipends to Medal of Honor recipients. Initially set at $10 monthly in 1916, the amount increased to $100 in 1961 and eventually rose to $1,000 per month in 2002. Since then, lawmakers have continued to raise the pension based on inflationary adjustments.
Notably, recipients of the Medal of Honor face limited financial opportunities compared to Olympic athletes or professional sports figures. While they can earn income from speaking engagements, book sales, and other civilian pursuits, these earnings pale in comparison to those of high-profile athletes.
In addition to the MEDAL Act, President Biden recently awarded six posthumous Medals of Honor to fallen service members. The ceremony highlighted the president's commitment to honoring America's heroes who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.
With this legislation, the U.S. government is taking a significant step in recognizing the sacrifices made by Medal of Honor recipients. By providing increased financial support, we can ensure that these extraordinary individuals are cared for, respected, and supported as they continue to share their stories and inspire future generations of heroes.