New law increases stipends for Medal of Honor recipients

Living recipients of the Medal of Honor will now receive approximately $67,500 per year following the enactment of new legislation signed Monday by President Donald Trump. The law, named the Monetary Enhancement for Distinguished Active Legends (MEDAL Act), raises their monthly pension from $1,489.73 to $5,625.

The enhanced stipend is designed to help cover the costs associated with earning the nations highest military honor, including travel for public appearances and events, among other obligations.

Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who sponsored the Senate version of the legislation, stated, While we cannot fully repay the debt owed to those whose valor earned this medal, we can honor them by ensuring they are cared for and supported.

Representative Troy Nehls, R-Texas, who worked on the bill in the House alongside Rep. Chris Pappas, D-N.H., added, This law eases the financial burden on our most decorated veterans, allowing them to continue inspiring Americans without worrying about their financial security.

Congress first authorized pensions for Medal of Honor recipients in 1916, initially granting $10 per month. The most recent increase before this legislation was in 2002, when recipients began receiving $1,000 monthly, adjusted annually for inflation. Earlier proposals had suggested a $100,000 annual stipend.

There are currently 61 living Medal of Honor recipients, according to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. The medal, first awarded in 1863, recognizes service members who demonstrate conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. To date, 3,547 Medals of Honor have been awarded to 3,528 individuals, with 19 receiving the award twice.

Rep. Chris Pappas emphasized that the legislation is a way to keep our promise to service members and veterans by ensuring their financial well-being after military service.

The first Medal of Honor recipient was Army Lieutenant Jacob Parrott, recognized for leading a 1862 mission in Georgia to disrupt Confederate rail lines. The most recent living recipient is retired Army Capt. Larry Taylor of Chattanooga, honored in 2023 for heroism as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. Taylor, who flew over 2,000 combat missions and was forced down five times under enemy fire, earned the medal for rescuing a four-man patrol under heavy attack. One of the men he saved, Sgt. David Hill, spent more than 30 years advocating for Taylors award to be upgraded from a Silver Star.

Author: Natalie Monroe