Every March 25th, we observe Medal of Honor Day, a time to recognize the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of the men and women who have received our nation's highest military decoration. The Medal of Honor isn't given lightly, hit represents valor above and beyond the call of duty, often in the face of almost certain death.

A Rare and Prestigious Honor

Since its creation during the Civil War, the Medal of Honor has been awarded to fewer than 3,500 service members. That number speaks to just how exceptional the actions must be to earn this recognition. Recipients have thrown themselves on grenades to save their comrades, single-handedly held off enemy forces to allow their units to retreat, and performed acts of heroism that defy comprehension.

The medal itself comes in three versions, one for each branch of the armed forces—but the standard remains the same: gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life, witnessed by others, and clearly beyond the requirements of duty.

Why March 25th?

Medal of Honor Day was established in 1991 and falls on March 25th because that's the date in 1863 when the first Medals of Honor were presented. Secretary of War Edwin Stanton awarded six Union soldiers for their bravery during the Civil War's Great Locomotive Chase. Since then, the medal has been awarded in every major American conflict, honoring soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who embody the highest ideals of service.

Honoring Recipients

Many Medal of Honor recipients didn't survive the actions that earned them the award. For those who did, the medal serves as a permanent reminder of a moment when they put everything on the line for others. On Medal of Honor Day, we remember both the living and the fallen, those who wore the medal and those who earned it posthumously.

Flying your flag on March 25th is a simple but meaningful way to honor these heroes. Whether at your home or business, displaying the American flag shows respect for the courage and sacrifice these service members demonstrated. It's a visual reminder that freedom isn't free, and that some have paid the ultimate price to defend it.

This Medal of Honor Day, take a moment to reflect on what true bravery looks like. And as we approach America's 250th birthday in 2026, we're celebrating the legacy of service and sacrifice that has defined our nation. We're giving away 250 U.S. stick flags and 250 Limited-Edition 250th Anniversary stick flags to some lucky winners! Register online to enter, it's our way of honoring the patriots, past and present, who've made 250 years of American freedom possible. See all the detials here!