Two Texas legislators champion raising pensions for war heroes as the state prepares to open the Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas.
“Our Medal of Honor recipients are heroes who embody the highest ideals of courage, sacrifice, and selflessness. They continue to serve our nation by sharing their stories, inspiring generations, and encouraging the next wave of America’s heroes. Yet, they often lack the resources for these activities. The MEDAL Act addresses those shortfalls. Congress should act swiftly to advance and pass this badly needed fix,” stated U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), who authored the Senate bill.
Companion legislation was also introduced in the House of Representatives. Congressman Troy Nehls (R-TX) and Chris Pappas (D-NH) co-introduced this bill.
“Medal of Honor recipients are brave heroes whose selflessness and valor should inspire every American,” Nehls said. “The men and women who’ve earned this honor went above and beyond the call of duty. I’m proud to reintroduce the Medal of Honor Act to ease the financial burdens of our nation’s Medal of Honor recipients. While we will never be able to repay these courageous individuals for their extraordinary acts, our nation must do everything we can to show our unwavering support and gratitude for their service.”
Pappas shared similar sentiments and offered additional context.
“In 1916, Congress created a special pension for recipients of $10 per month for life. In 1961, Congress raised the monthly payment from $10 to $100. The last congressional pension raise was in 2002 when the pension was raised to $1,000 per month,” his office’s statement read.
If passed, the proposed legislation would raise the special pension that Medal of Honor recipients receive to $100,000 annually.
“By law, only U.S. service members who distinguish themselves ‘through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty’ can receive the medal,” per the Department of Defense website.
Since the first Medal of Honor was awarded to Army Private Jacob Parrott in 1863, 3,515 recipients have received it, and 61 awardees are currently living.
Awardees are entitled to the pension if they choose to take it, and upon their death, their widows usually qualify to draw the special pension.
This bill comes as Texas will soon be home to a museum of national significance. On March 25, 2025, the National Medal of Honor Museum will open its doors in the entertainment district of Arlington, near AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, and Choctaw Stadium.
“The stories of the country’s Medal of Honor recipients define the values that embody the spirit of the Medal itself: courage, sacrifice, commitment, integrity, citizenship, and patriotism. Within the National Medal of Honor Museum, they will live to commemorate historic actions and inspire future generations,” the museum website says.