The Medal of Honor is the highest award that can be given to any individual by the United States of America. Conceived in the early 1860s, the medal has a colorful and inspiring history that has culminated in the standards applied today for awarding this respected decoration.

In their provisions for judging potential recipients, each of the armed services has established regulations that permit no margin of doubt or error. The deed of the person must be proven by incontestable evidence of at least two eyewitnesses; it must be so outstanding that it clearly distinguishes one's gallantry beyond the call of duty from other forms of bravery; it must involve risk of life; and it must be the type of deed that, if the nominee had not done it, would not result in any justified rebuke.

Apart from the great tribute it conveys, there are certain privileges that accompany the Medal of Honor. Its recipients can, under certain conditions, obtain free military air transportation. Special identification cards and military commissary and exchange privileges are provided for them and their qualified dependents. Children of recipients are eligible for admission to any of the military academies. Finally, recipients can receive a special pension of more than $1,000 per month.