Stories of Valor for National Medal of Honor Day
March 18, 2025
March 25th marks National Medal of Honor Day, a day dedicated to honoring the brave recipients of the Medal of Honor. Awarded to Service Members from all branches, the Medal of Honor acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated exceptional bravery in the face of danger. As the highest distinction in the United States, the Medal of Honor recognizes acts of valor far beyond the ordinary call of duty. While the history of Medal of Honor is vast and inspiring, here are a few of the remarkable recipients.
Kenneth J. David
Kenneth J. David was awarded the Medal of Honor for his incredible heroism during the Vietnam War. Drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969, David served with Company D, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division. Despite sustaining wounds on May 7, 1970, at Firebase Maureen in South Vietnam, David displayed actions that went above and beyond the call of duty.
When his company came under heavy attack, he didn’t hesitate to leave his position as a radio-telephone operator. He moved forward to engage the enemy and protect his comrades, drawing enemy fire away from the wounded soldiers. Even after an exploding satchel charge injured him, David kept fighting to resist the assault. His bravery and selflessness exemplified true valor and sacrifice.
From his citation: “Private First Class David’s courageous and selfless actions continued to draw the enemy fire away from the incoming medevac helicopters, allowing the wounded to be safely evacuated.” “Private First Class David’s conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism, and intrepidity at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.”
The Miller Brothers
Brothers Harry and Willard Miller are among the seven sets of Medal of Honor siblings. They received the Medal of Honor for their bravery during the Spanish-American War. Serving together aboard the USS Nashville, they participated in a dangerous boat expedition to cut the underwater cable leading from Cienfuegos Cuba. Despite facing heavy enemy fire, they remained calm and courageous, displaying exceptional bravery throughout the operation. The Miller brothers’ bravery serves as an example of courage and service, and we honor both for their shared heroism.
Their citation reads: “On board the U.S.S. Nashville during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Miller displayed extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.”
Henry Breault
Henry Breault made history as the first submariner to receive the Medal of Honor. On October 28, 1923, while serving aboard the USS O-5 (SS-66), Breault demonstrated extraordinary bravery when the submarine collided with the steamship Abangarez, and sank in less than a minute. As the submarine rapidly filled with water, Breault had the chance to escape but chose instead to return to the torpedo room to help a shipmate trapped inside. He and his fellow sailor, Brown, spent 31 hours trapped before rescuers found them.
Breault’s courageous actions saved the life of his shipmate and showcased his dedication to his comrades. His bravery earned him the Medal of Honor and cemented his place in U.S. Navy History.
From his citation: “Instead of jumping overboard to save his own life, he returned to the torpedo room to the rescue of a shipmate who he knew was trapped in the boat, closing the torpedo room hatch on himself.”
Show Your Support
National Medal of Honor Day honors the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty. One way you can show gratitude is by volunteering with Soldiers’ Angels to support Service Members and Veterans. Through this meaningful opportunity, you can make a difference while paying tribute to our nation’s heroes. Who knows—you may just support the next Medal of Honor recipient!
