Trump signs Medal of Honor Act to raise pensions for America’s military heroes
On a significant day for American veterans, President Donald Trump has officially signed the Medal of Honor Act into law, a measure aimed at enhancing the financial support provided to the nation’s most distinguished military heroes. The Act mandates the Department of Veterans Affairs to increase the annual special monthly pension for living Medal of Honor recipients from $16,880 to approximately $67,500, marking a nearly fourfold increase. This legislative move reflects a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by these extraordinary individuals who have demonstrated unparalleled bravery and commitment to their country. Representative Troy Nehls of Texas, who sponsored the legislation, emphasized the importance of recognizing and compensating these heroes appropriately, stating that they embody the best of America and often share their inspiring stories across the nation without seeking special recognition or treatment.
The Medal of Honor, established during the Civil War, has been awarded to 3,528 individuals since its inception, with the first recipient being Army Private Jacob Parrott in 1863. The new legislation not only alleviates the financial burdens faced by the 63 living Medal of Honor recipients but also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by all veterans. Nehls expressed his gratitude to President Trump for signing the bill, highlighting the ongoing commitment of these heroes to inspire future generations. Senator Ted Cruz echoed these sentiments, affirming the nation’s gratitude toward these extraordinary individuals and underscoring the importance of honoring their service. The Medal of Honor Act stands as a testament to America’s commitment to its veterans, ensuring that those who have given so much in defense of freedom receive the recognition and support they rightfully deserve.
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President
Donald Trump
signed into law the Medal of Honor Act, which directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to “increase the rate of the special monthly pension payable to living Medal of Honor recipients,” the White House said.
The move “ensures Medal of Honor recipients are rightfully compensated with an increase to their pension after their military service is over,” according to the White House.
“Medal of Honor recipients truly embody the best of our nation,” Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, who
sponsored the legislation
, said Monday after Trump signed it.
The 63 living Medal of Honor recipients receive a special pension of $16,880 annually, but the Medal of Honor Act now increases that pension “to around $67,500 annually, a nearly fourfold increase,” the Republican’s office said.
PURPLE HEART RECIPIENT AND VETERAN ADVOCATE SGT. MICHAEL VERARDO LAID TO REST WITH HONORS AT ARLINGTON
“They never ask for special recognition or demand special treatment. Many of the living Medal of Honor recipients spend most of their time traveling our country, telling their stories inspiring the next generation of America’s heroes,” Nehls added in a statement.
“My bill, the Medal of Honor Act, eases their financial burden by
increasing their special pension
— ensuring they know that America is grateful for all they’ve done to serve our country and defend our freedoms.”
RETIRED ARMY CAPTAIN DEDICATES HIS MEDAL OF HONOR AWARD TO FELLOW SOLDIERS IN AFGHANISTAN
“I am beyond grateful to President Trump, our Commander in Chief, for signing my bill into law,” Nehls also said. “The least we can do is lift the financial burden off of these selfless warriors who continue to serve our great nation.”
The first Medal of Honor was given to Army Private Jacob Parrott in 1863, according to Nehls’ office.
There have been 3,528 total recipients, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society said.
“These individuals are heroes. The Medal of Honor recipients are extraordinary,” Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, said in a video posted on Instagram Monday. “We see you. We remember you. We are grateful for you.”
