Today, Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT) and Congressman Marc Veasey (D-TX) introduced the Hershel “Woody” Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act.
During the 117th Congress, Congressmen Moore and Veasey successfully led the bipartisan National Medal of Honor Monument Act through the legislative process to authorize the creation of a new monument in Washington, D.C., to honor Medal of Honor recipients. The bill was signed by President Biden in December of 2021. The Hershel “Woody” Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act is the next and final legislative step in establishing a location for the monument on the National Mall.
“Last Congress, I was proud to help lead the effort to authorize the creation of a monument to honor our nation’s bravest heroes,” said Congressman Moore. “Today, we begin our work to build this monument on the National Mall. Congressman Veasey and I are resolved to share the stories of these amazing Medal of Honor recipients in the most appropriate place, and I am thrilled to continue our efforts on this important project. I look forward to bringing my children to D.C. to see this monument and reflect on our greatest patriots’ many sacrifices.”
“The Medal of Honor exemplifies the best qualities of our brave soldiers,” said Congressman Veasey. “Today, I am honored to join Rep. Moore to introduce the Medal of Honor Placement Act—bipartisan legislation that creates a monument to honor their service and sacrifice to our nation.”
The Medal of Honor is the United States’ highest award for military valor in action. An estimated 40 million individuals have served in the United States Armed Forces since the Civil War. Fewer than 4,000 have been awarded the Medal of Honor. President Abraham Lincoln awarded the first Medals of Honor more than 160 years ago on March 25, 1863, forever tying the Medal to his lasting and living legacy. In 1991, President George H.W. Bush further extended this legacy by establishing March 25 as National Medal of Honor Day.
