In a speech at a campaign event discussing antisemitism, former President Donald Trump praised Miriam Adelson, a wealthy donor, for receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which he claimed was a better award than the Medal of Honor. Trump argued that the Presidential Medal of Freedom was superior because recipients of the Medal of Honor are often deceased or injured. He also criticized Democratic vice presidential nominee, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, for his military record. Trump awarded Adelson the Medal of Freedom in 2018 for her donations to anti-addiction facilities and her work as a doctor.
The Medal of Honor is the highest military honor bestowed for valor in combat, with over 3,500 recipients since its establishment in 1863. In contrast, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, has been awarded to over 600 civilians. The criteria for the Medal of Honor require military members to display gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their lives above and beyond the call of duty. Recipients must have their acts of valor documented and approved by the president.
Trump’s comments on the Medal of Honor and the Presidential Medal of Freedom sparked controversy and drew attention to the significance and criteria for these prestigious awards. The debate over the value and recognition associated with each award highlights differing opinions on civilian and military honors and the sacrifices made by those who receive them.
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