Medal of Honor recipients would see their pensions increase 6-fold under new proposal
Exclusive: A new bipartisan bill would increase pensions for Medal of Honor recipients sixfold.
The legislation, which was reintroduced by Texas Republican Rep. Troy Nehls and Sen. Ted Cruz New Hampshire Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas will raise the pay for those receiving the nation’s highest military award from $16,880 annually to $100,000 annually.
Supporters of the bill say the pay would ease the financial burden on medalists who often crisscross the country to give speeches on their own money.
The legislation would affect 60 Living Medal of Honor recipients. The medal has been awarded to about 3,500 people since its inception in 1863.
President Biden awards the Medal of Honor to seven Army veterans
Then-President Biden presented the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award, to the soldier. Kenneth J. David, during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Friday, January 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
Pension rolls for Medal of Honor recipients First created in 1916, retirees receive $10 a month from the federal government. The monthly salary was raised to $100 in 1961 and $1,000 in 2002.
“I am proud to reintroduce the Medal of Honor Act to ease the financial burdens on our nation’s Medal of Honor recipients,” Niles said in a statement. “While we will never be able to repay these brave individuals for their extraordinary actions, we must do everything we can to show our unwavering support and gratitude for their service.”
Former President Joe Biden The Medal of Honor was awarded to seven U.S. Army soldiers, six posthumously and one who attended the White House ceremony in person—Pvt. Kenneth J. David – for their actions In Korean And the Vietnam wars.
Those honored posthumously were Pfc. Bruno R. Orig, Pvt. Wataru Nakamura, Cpl. Fred B. McGee, Pvt. Charles R. Johnson, and General Richard E. Cavazos, and Captain Hugh R. Nelson Jr.
In May 1970, David’s company was attacked by enemy forces. Then David, the wireless operator, engaged the enemy and drew fire away from his fellow soldiers. He distracted them by shouting, firing his rifle, and throwing grenades while friendly helicopters swooped in to evacuate the wounded.
Then-President Biden awarded the Medal of Honor to retired Army Col. Paris Davis for his heroism during the Vietnam War, Friday, March 3, 2023, at the White House. (AFP/Evan Vucci)
“Our Medal of Honor recipients are heroes who embody the highest ideals of courage, sacrifice and selflessness,” Cruz said. “They continue to serve our nation by sharing their stories, inspiring generations and encouraging the next wave of America’s heroes.” “However, they often lack the financial resources for these activities. The MEDAL Act addresses this shortage.”
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The bill has been introduced in two previous congressional terms, but has not yet received a vote. It is not yet clear whether it will reach the House of Representatives and the Senate This Congress.
