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National Medal of Honor Day: Honoring South Carolina’s 33 Heroes and All Recipients

Thomas Hyslip

Observed annually on March 25th, National Medal of Honor Day is a day dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have been awarded the United States’ highest military decoration for valor. This day, officially designated by the United States Congress, serves as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary courage and selflessness displayed by Medal of Honor recipients throughout American history. The date was chosen because the first Medals of Honor were presented on March 25, 1863, to six members of Andrews’ Raiders.   

The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of the armed forces who distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their lives above and beyond the call of duty. It is a testament to the unwavering commitment and sacrifice that these individuals have made in service to their country.   

South Carolina’s Medal of Honor Recipients: A State’s Legacy of Bravery

South Carolina has a rich history of producing heroes who have demonstrated extraordinary valor in service to the nation. Thirty-three individuals with ties to South Carolina have been awarded the Medal of Honor, spanning conflicts from the Civil War to the War on Terror. Their stories represent a profound legacy of courage and sacrifice. Here is a list of the 33 recipients:

  • Webster Anderson (Vietnam War)
  • Thomas Eugene “Gene” Atkins (World War II)
  • Charles H. Barker (Korean War)
  • Robert Blake (U.S. Civil War)
  • Christopher A. Celiz (War on Terrorism)
  • James C. Dozier (World War I)
  • Middleton S. Elliott (Mexican Campaign)
  • Gary E. Foster (World War I)
  • Ernest A. Garlington (Indian Campaigns)
  • Thomas L. Hall (World War I)
  • James D. Heriot (World War I)
  • Richmond H. Hilton (World War I)
  • Joe R. Hooper (Vietnam War)
  • James D. Howe (Vietnam War)
  • Ralph H. Johnson (Vietnam War)
  • John T. Kennedy (Philippine Insurrection)
  • Robert S. Kennemore (Korean War)
  • Noah O. Knight (Korean War)
  • George L. Mabry Jr (World War II)
  • William A. McWhorter (World War II)
  • William A. Moffett (Mexican Campaign)
  • Robert A. Owens (World War II)
  • Thomas P. Payne (War on Terrorism)
  • Furman L. Smith (World War II)
  • Freddie Stowers (World War I)
  • Daniel A. Sullivan (World War I)
  • Michael E. Thornton (Vietnam War)
  • Donald L. Truesdell (Second Nicaraguan Campaign)
  • John C. Villepigue (World War I)
  • Lewis G. Watkins (Korean War)
  • George H. Wheeler (Interim 1899 – 1910)
  • Charles Q. Williams (Vietnam War)
  • James E. Williams (Vietnam War)

These South Carolinians, like all Medal of Honor recipients, embody the highest ideals of service and sacrifice.

A Legacy of Courage: The Story of Jason Dunham

Among the many heroes who have received this prestigious award is Corporal Jason L. Dunham, a U.S. Marine Corps Corporal. Dunham’s story exemplifies the extraordinary bravery that defines Medal of Honor recipients. On April 14, 2004, during a reconnaissance mission in Karabilah, Iraq, Dunham’s squad was ambushed. In the ensuing chaos, an insurgent attacked Dunham and released a grenade. Without hesitation, Dunham covered the grenade with his helmet and body, shielding his fellow Marines from the blast. His selfless act saved the lives of at least two of his comrades. Though mortally wounded, Dunham’s courage and unwavering devotion to duty earned him the Medal of Honor, posthumously awarded on January 11, 2007. Dunham, a native of Scio, NY, represents the spirit of sacrifice embodied by all Medal of Honor recipients. His story, like so many others, serves as a powerful reminder of the debt of gratitude we owe to these heroes.

Honoring Our Heroes

National Medal of Honor Day deserves wider recognition. There are many ways to commemorate this important day:

  • Fly the American flag to show respect for Medal of Honor recipients.
  • Send thank you cards or letters to living recipients.
  • Inform local media about National Medal of Honor Day and encourage them to share the stories of local recipients.
  • Engage schools and libraries in educational programs about the Medal of Honor and its recipients.

By remembering and honoring these heroes, we ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten and that their legacy of courage continues to inspire future generations.

You can learn more about the National Medal of Honor and its recipients at the Home of Heroes website. You can also read about Jason Dunham on the Congressional Medal of Honor Society website.

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