WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Republican-controlled House of Representatives has unanimously approved bipartisan legislation that would significantly increase the federal pension provided to living Medal of Honor recipients.
The measure passed 424-0, raising the annual pension from approximately $16,880 to $67,500. Supporters say the increase recognizes the extraordinary service of recipients while addressing financial burdens associated with their continued public responsibilities.
Reps. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, and Chris Pappas, D-N.H., were among the lawmakers supporting the legislation. They argued that many Medal of Honor recipients travel across the country to speak at schools, veterans’ events and other public gatherings, often absorbing expenses themselves.
The increased payments would be funded through Veterans Affairs disability compensation. The legislation also extends an existing limitation on certain veterans’ pensions from 2031 through 2033 to help offset the cost.
Honoring America’s Most Decorated Heroes
Approximately 60 Medal of Honor recipients are currently living, while roughly 3,500 Americans have received the nation’s highest military decoration since its establishment during the Civil War in 1863.
The pension program dates to 1916, when recipients received $10 per month. The benefit was later increased to $100 in 1961 and $1,000 in 2002 before reaching its current level.
The legislation arrives as the National Medal of Honor Museum prepares to open in Arlington, Texas, providing a permanent venue dedicated to preserving the stories of American service members who demonstrated extraordinary courage.
Recognizing Extraordinary Acts of Courage
Recent Medal of Honor ceremonies have highlighted acts of heroism spanning multiple generations of American military history.
Among those recognized are World War II veteran Master Sgt. Roddie Edmonds, who protected Jewish American prisoners during captivity; Army Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis, who sacrificed his life in Afghanistan while shielding a Polish officer from a suicide bomber; and retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Terry Richardson, whose actions in Vietnam helped save dozens of fellow soldiers.
Other recipients include retired Marine Col. John Ripley, remembered for destroying a strategically important bridge during the Vietnam War; retired Army Maj. Nicholas Dockery, recognized for extraordinary leadership under fire in Afghanistan; and retired Marine Col. Capers, who continued directing his unit despite severe wounds during a Vietnam operation.
The House vote represents a rare moment of unanimous bipartisan agreement in Congress.
Supporters say the legislation is ultimately about ensuring that Americans who performed extraordinary acts in service to the nation receive meaningful recognition and financial support.
The measure must now proceed through the Senate before it can reach the president. If enacted, the increase would mark one of the most substantial changes to Medal of Honor benefits in decades.
