# 4822/4988a - 2013-15 Medal of Honor, collection of 7 stamps
4822a-23a
4988a
Birth Of U.S. Army’s Medal Of Honor
Although awards had been given for military service since 1782, the first steps in creating the Medal of Honor as we know it were taken in 1861. It was at that time that Edward D. Townsend suggested to Commanding General of the U.S. Army, Winfield Scott, to introduce a medal for individual valor.
Two months later, Massachusetts Senator Henry Wilson created a similar bill, giving the president the authority to “distribute medals to privates in the Army of the United States who shall distinguish themselves in battle.” The wording of the bill changed over time to read, that the president is “authorized to cause two thousand “medals of honor” to be prepared with suitable emblematic devices, and to direct that the same be presented, in the name of the Congress, to such non-commissioned officers and privates as shall most distinguish themselves by their gallantry in action, and other soldier-like qualities, during the present insurrection (Civil War).” President Lincoln signed the bill into law on July 12, 1862.
4822a-23a
4988a
Birth Of U.S. Army’s Medal Of Honor
Although awards had been given for military service since 1782, the first steps in creating the Medal of Honor as we know it were taken in 1861. It was at that time that Edward D. Townsend suggested to Commanding General of the U.S. Army, Winfield Scott, to introduce a medal for individual valor.
Two months later, Massachusetts Senator Henry Wilson created a similar bill, giving the president the authority to “distribute medals to privates in the Army of the United States who shall distinguish themselves in battle.” The wording of the bill changed over time to read, that the president is “authorized to cause two thousand “medals of honor” to be prepared with suitable emblematic devices, and to direct that the same be presented, in the name of the Congress, to such non-commissioned officers and privates as shall most distinguish themselves by their gallantry in action, and other soldier-like qualities, during the present insurrection (Civil War).” President Lincoln signed the bill into law on July 12, 1862.