National Medal of Honor Day was established by Congress to “foster public appreciation and recognition of Medal of Honor Recipients.” The first National Medal of Honor Day was celebrated on March 25, 1991. March 25th was chosen because it was on that date in 1863 that the first Medals of Honor were presented to six members of Andrews’ Raiders.

This year, the Medal of Honor Recipients will spend several days participating in community outreach activities and events across the country all month long, from Washington, D.C.; Charleston, SC; Indianapolis, IN; and Riverside, CA. March 25th will end with a ceremony honoring this year’s Citizen Honors Awards, recognizing America’s everyday heroes.