Portal:Military of the United States/Featured article/15

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The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States. It is often referred to as the Congressional Medal of Honor because the President presents the award "in the name of the Congress". It is bestowed on a member of the United States armed forces who distinguishes himself or herself "... conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States ..."

The Medal of Honor is one of only two American military awards worn around the neck; the other is the Commander's Degree of the Legion of Merit. Whereas the Medal of Honor is a military award for valor—actions taken during combat operations at risk of one's own life that are above and beyond the call of duty—the Legion of Merit is a merit award.