Former President Donald Trump received criticism for his remarks comparing the Presidential Medal of Freedom he awarded to Dr. Miriam Adelson with the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military honor. Trump made the comments while speaking at an event on fighting antisemitism, praising Adelson as one of the greatest businessmen and saying that the civilian equivalent of the Medal of Honor is much better because, unlike military recipients, Adelson is a healthy, beautiful woman. Adelson, a physician who specializes in drug addiction and humanitarian work, was awarded the Medal of Freedom in 2018 for her contributions to combating substance abuse and funding medical research.
Republican Senator JD Vance defended Trump’s comments, stating that they were not meant to denigrate military honors but to compliment Adelson on her award. However, many veterans on social media criticized Trump’s remarks as offensive and disrespectful towards Medal of Honor recipients who have shown extraordinary bravery in combat situations. Critics pointed out the large donations made by the Adelsons to Trump and GOP causes, contrasting that with the sacrifices made by Medal of Honor recipients who risked their lives to protect others and face enemy fire.
The Medal of Honor, awarded for combat valor, has been granted to only 3,517 service members out of the 41 million who have served in the U.S. military. In contrast, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, established in 1945, has been awarded 653 times between 1963 and 2024 to recipients who reflect a president’s political and personal interests. The Medal has been given to various figures in art, entertainment, politics, and sports, including renowned individuals such as the late U.S. Ambassador Ellsworth Bunker and Colin Powell. Medal of Honor recipient Florent Groberg expressed respect for the Medal of Freedom while also acknowledging its differences from the military award due to distinct criteria and significance.
Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Ramos highlighted the heroic actions of Medal of Honor recipient Army Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn Cashe, who, in a dire situation in Iraq, sacrificed himself to save his fellow soldiers from a burning vehicle amidst enemy fire. Cashe suffered severe burns over most of his body and ultimately died from his injuries after ensuring that his soldiers received medical attention before him. Ramos and others emphasized that the bravery displayed by soldiers like Cashe cannot be equated with civilian awards like the Medal of Freedom, as they entail different criteria and significances. Trump’s comparison of Adelson’s award with military honors was seen as a dishonor to the sacrifices made by service members like Cashe.
Overall, Trump’s remarks sparked controversy and drew attention to the distinction between civilian awards like the Medal of Freedom and military honors like the Medal of Honor. While both awards recognize extraordinary achievements and contributions, the sacrifices made by Medal of Honor recipients in combat situations are viewed as unparalleled acts of bravery and selflessness. The criticism directed at Trump for his comments highlights the need to acknowledge and honor the sacrifices made by U.S. service members who have displayed courage and valor in the face of extreme danger.
