Trump says Medal of Freedom is as good as or better than Medal of Honor, upsetting veterans
Former President Donald Trump ignited controversy on Thursday with his remarks comparing the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which he awarded to Dr. Miriam Adelson, to the Medal of Honor, the highest military award for bravery in combat. The comments were made during an event on fighting antisemitism from Trump’s golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey. The late Sheldon Adelson, a Republican mega-donor, was praised by Trump as one of the greatest businessmen, leading to the comparison between the two prestigious medals.
Trump stated that the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor given for significant achievements in various fields, was equivalent to the Congressional Medal of Honor, the military’s highest award. Describing Dr. Miriam Adelson as a healthy and beautiful woman who received the award, Trump’s remarks stirred a heated debate, particularly among veterans who found the comparison offensive and disrespectful.
Dr. Miriam Adelson, a physician specializing in drug addiction and renowned for her philanthropic work and donations to Jewish organizations, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2018 for her contribution to substance abuse research. However, critics voiced concern over the Adelsons’ substantial financial contributions to Trump and GOP candidates, questioning the merit of the award in light of the extraordinary bravery displayed by Medal of Honor recipients.
Many veterans, as well as prominent social media figures, condemned Trump’s remarks, recalling past controversies where he made disparaging comments about military service members. The Medal of Honor, established in 1863, has been awarded to only a select few service members who displayed exceptional courage and valor in the face of extreme danger, contrasting with the broader spectrum of Presidential Medal of Freedom awardees.
Furthermore, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, created in 1945, is often awarded to individuals reflecting a president’s personal and political interests. Recipients have included prominent figures in various fields, such as art and entertainment, as well as key contributors to society. Despite the distinction of both awards, the criteria and significance of the Medal of Honor remain unparalleled in honoring the selfless acts of courage displayed by military service members.
Medal of Honor recipient, Retired Army Capt. Florent Groberg, emphasized the importance of recognizing civilian contributions but underscored the unique criteria and significance of the Medal of Honor in a league of its own. Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Ramos echoed these sentiments, highlighting the heroic actions of individuals like Army Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn Cashe, whose posthumous Medal of Honor recognition underscored the ultimate sacrifice made in service to the nation.
Alwyn Cashe’s courageous actions during a nighttime patrol in Iraq refuted any attempt to equate the civilian honors with military awards. Cashe’s selfless acts of bravery, risking his life to save fellow soldiers amidst enemy fire, exemplified the valor and sacrifice inherent in the Medal of Honor. Such actions serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment and heroism displayed by service members in defense of freedom and democracy.
While the debate surrounding Trump’s remarks continues to resonate across social media platforms, the foundational significance and solemnity of the Medal of Honor remain steadfast in honoring those who go above and beyond the call of duty. As the nation reflects on the valor of its military heroes, the distinction between civilian honors and military awards serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve and protect the freedoms we hold dear.
