Rogers Advocates for ‘National Medal of Honor Day'

Rogers Advocates for ‘National Medal of Honor Day'

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, MI-08, believes a "National Medal of Honor Day" should be observed each year to express a grateful nation's appreciation for medal recipients' service.

Rogers is the original co-sponsor of legislation introduced this week, just before Memorial Day, to establish a national day to honor the more than 3,400 American military veterans decorated with the Medal of Honor in recognition of extraordinary bravery and heroism.

"Michigan has been home to 109 of those brave soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, who are among the recipients of the Medal of Honor since its inception during the Civil War," said Rogers, a U.S. Army veteran. "Seventy-four honorees buried in Michigan are among those we salute on this Memorial Day weekend.

"Michigan has four living Medal of Honor recipients, and it is important for us to remember them as we memorialize the service and sacrifice of the brave men and women who serve this nation in defense of freedom."

Rogers said Congress, in 1990, proclaimed March 25, 1991, as "National Medal of Honor Day," but the proclamation was only for that one celebration, prompting his support of H.Res.297. The measure establishes an annual recognition of the recipients of the prestigious military award.

"There should be a tradition of regularly recognizing the extraordinary bravery of the Medal of Honor recipients," Rogers said. "A traditional celebration will honor these remarkable veterans, both living and dead, and acknowledge their incredible service to our nation."

The measure has been referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

http://www.mikerogers.house.gov/newsroom.aspx?A=169