List of Congressional Gold Medal recipients

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This is a list of recipients of the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the United States Congress.

Recipients of Continental Congress Gold Medals

Recipient(s) Date of approval Public law Notes Medal
Gilbert Stuart Williamstown Portrait of George Washington.jpg
George Washington March 25, 1776 Continental Congress In honor of the liberation of Boston, first major city liberated from British occupation. Later led the Continental Army to victory in the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783). Presented to Washington March 21, 1790 and currently resides at the Boston Public Library.[1]

Also See Washington Before Boston Medal
1776 Washington Before Boston Comitia Americana Second Restrike (Baker-48G) (obv).jpg
HoratioGates.jpg
Major General Horatio Gates November 4, 1777 Continental Congress Victor in Saratoga campaign. The medal is currently possessed by the New York Historical Society.
Horatio Gates Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Anthony Wayne.jpg
Major General Anthony Wayne July 26, 1779 Continental Congress Commander at the Battle of Stony Point. The medal is currently possessed by the Pennsylvania Society of Sons of the Revolution.
Anthony Wayne Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
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Major Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee September 24, 1779 Continental Congress Commander at the Battle of Paulus Hook. Only non-general to receive a gold medal during the American Revolutionary War
Henry Lee Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
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Brigadier General Daniel Morgan March 9, 1781 Continental Congress Commander at the Battle of Cowpens. In 1836 Congress (5 Stat. 66) authorized a duplicate be struck to replace the lost original, and be presented to Morgan Neville, his lineal heir
Morgan Cowpens medal etching.jpg
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Major General Nathanael Greene October 29, 1781 Continental Congress Commander at the Battle of Eutaw Springs
Nathanael Greene Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Cpt John Paul Jones.jpg
John Paul Jones October 16, 1787 Continental Congress "For his 'valor and brilliant services' during the Battle of Flamborough Head eight years earlier. Jones became the first and only Continental Navy officer to receive this distinction for his service during the American Revolution."[2]
John Paul Jones Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg

Recipients of U.S. Congress Gold Medals

Recipient(s) Date of approval Public law Notes Medal
Thomas Truxtun.jpg
Captain Thomas Truxtun March 29, 1800 2 Stat. 87[3] Commander of the USS Constellation during the battle against the French frigate La Vengeance
Thomas Truxtun Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Edward Preble.jpg
Commodore Edward Preble March 3, 1805 2 Stat. 346–347 For 1804 attacks on Tripoli during the First Barbary War
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Jacob Jones.jpg
Captain Isaac Hull, Captain Stephen Decatur, and Captain Jacob Jones January 29, 1813 2 Stat. 830 For action against the Guerriere, Macedonian, and Frolic during the War of 1812. Silver duplicates awarded to their commissioned officers on board.
Isaac Hull Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg

Stephen Decatur Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg

Jacob Jones Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
William Bainbridge.jpg
Captain William Bainbridge March 3, 1813 2 Stat. 831 Commander of the USS Constitution during its capture of HMS Java. Silver duplicates awarded to his commissioned officers on board. The medal is currently possessed by the USS Constitution Museum.
William Bainbridge Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Captain Oliver Hazard Perry and Captain Jesse D. Elliott January 6, 1814 3 Stat. 141 Victors of the Battle of Lake Erie. Silver medals authorized for their commissioned officers on board.
EnterpriseTripoli.jpg
Lieutenant William Ward Burrows II and Lieutenant Edward McCall January 6, 1814 3 Stat. 141–142 For capture of HMS Boxer; awarded posthumously to Burrows, who was killed in action. Silver duplicates awarded to his commissioned officers on board.
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Captain James Lawrence January 11, 1814 3 Stat. 142 Awarded posthumously for capture of HMS Peacock. Silver medals awarded to his commissioned officers on board.
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Captain Thomas Macdonough, Captain Robert Henley, and Lieutenant Stephen Cassin October 20, 1814 3 Stat. 245–246 Heroes of Battle of Plattsburgh
Captain Lewis Warrington October 21, 1814 3 Stat. 246 For capture of HMS Epervier. Silver duplcates awarded to his commissioned officers on board.
Captain Johnston Blakeley November 3, 1814 3 Stat. 246–247 For capture of HMS Reindeer. Silver duplicates awarded to his commissioned officers on board.
Jacob Jennings Brown.jpg
Major General Jacob Brown November 3, 1814 3 Stat. 247 Commander at the Battles of Chippawa, Niagara, and Erie
Winfield Scott.jpg
Major General Winfield Scott November 3, 1814
March 9, 1848
3 Stat. 247
9 Stat. 333
AR Miller James.jpg
Brigadier General Eleazar Ripley, Brigadier General James Miller, and Major General Peter Buell Porter November 3, 1814 3 Stat. 247 For their actions at the battles of Chippawa, Niagara, and Erie
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Major General Edmund P. Gaines November 3, 1814 3 Stat. 247 For his actions on 15 August 1814 at the Battle of Erie (now known as the Siege of Fort Erie)
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Major General Alexander Macomb November 3, 1814 3 Stat. 247 For his actions on 11 September 1814 at The Battle of Plattsburgh
Macomb Congressional Medal Obverse.jpg
Andrew Jackson.jpg
Major General Andrew Jackson February 27, 1815 3 Stat. 249 For the defense of New Orleans
Commodore Charles Stewart 1841.jpg
Captain Charles Stewart February 22, 1816 3 Stat. 341 For the capture of HMS Cyane and HMS Levant. Silver medals awarded to his commissioned officers on board.
Captain James Biddle February 22, 1816 3 Stat. 341 For the capture of HMS Penguin. Silver medals awarded to his commissioned officers on board.
William Henry Harrison.jpg
Major General William Henry Harrison and
Governor Isaac Shelby
April 4, 1818 3 Stat. 476 Victors of the Battle of the Thames
George Croghan.jpg
Colonel George Croghan February 13, 1835 4 Stat. 792 For the defense of Fort Stephenson
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Major General Zachary Taylor July 16, 1846
March 2, 1847
May 9, 1848
9 Stat. 111
9 Stat. 206
9 Stat. 334-335
Only individual to be awarded three times[4]
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Rescuers of the Officers and Crew of the U.S. Brig Somers March 3, 1847 9 Stat. 208 Awarded to officers and men of French, British, and Spanish ships who rescued officers and men of the Somers during the Mexican-American War.
Duncan Ingraham.jpg
Commander Duncan Ingraham August 4, 1854 10 Stat. 594–595 For his role in the Koszta Affair
Frederick Rose (surgeon) May 11, 1858 11 Stat. 369 First time a Congressional Gold Medal was given to any non-member of the US military.[5]
Ulysses Grant 1870-1880.jpg
Major General Ulysses S. Grant December 17, 1863 13 Stat. 399 For gallantry and good conduct of himself and his troops in battles of the rebellion. The medal is currently possessed by the Smithsonian.
Cornelius Vanderbilt Daguerrotype2.jpg
Cornelius Vanderbilt January 28, 1864 13 Stat. 401 For donating his steamship Vanderbilt to the Union
Cornelius Vanderbilt Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Captain Creighton, Captain Low, and Captain Stouffer July 26, 1866 14 Stat. 365–366 For rescuing "about 500" Americans from the wreck of the steamship San Francisco
SS San Francisco Congressional Medal Obverse.JPG
CyrusField.jpg
Cyrus West Field March 2, 1867 14 Stat. 574 For establishing the first Transatlantic telegraph cable
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George Peabody March 16, 1867 15 Stat. 20 For giving $2,000,000 for the promotion of education in the more destitute portions of the southern and southwestern States.
George F. Robinson March 1, 1871 16 Stat. 704
Captain Jared Crandall and Others February 24, 1873 17 Stat. 638 For rescue operations involving the steamer Metis. Statute does not specifically call for gold medals to the ten individuals cited (including Crandall), instead leaves it to the discretion of the President. Unclear if any were gold.
Metis Congressional Medal (obverse).jpg
John Horn, Jr. June 20, 1874
April 28, 1904
18 Stat. 573
33 Stat. 1684–1685
Noted lifesaver. 1904 medal was a re-issue of the earlier award, which Horn claimed had been stolen. Customarily, the Secretary of the Treasury had issued duplicate medals upon the submission of absolute proof that showed the originals had been irrecoverably lost or destroyed. Since such proof was absent in Horn's case, congressional approval was necessary before the medal could be replaced.[6]
John Fox Slater John Fox Slater February 5, 1883 22 Stat. 636 United States philanthropist known for assisting in the education of emancipated African American slaves.
Joseph Francis Joseph Francis August 27, 1888 25 Stat. 1249 Inventor of life-saving tools. The medal is currently possessed by the Smithsonian.
Joseph Francis Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
George W. Melville;h60095.jpg
Chief Engineer George Wallace Melville and Others September 30, 1890 26 Stat. 552–553 To commemorate the perils encountered during the Jeannette Expedition. 8 gold and 25 silver medals were struck, in decoration form, suspended from a ribbon.[7][8]
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First Lieutenant Frank H. Newcomb May 3, 1900 31 Stat. 716 For heroism as commanding officer of USRC Hudson during the Battle of Cardenas, 1898. The officers and men of Hudson received silver and bronze versions of the gold medal.
US Coast Guard Capt Commandant Ellsworth P. Bertholf.jpg
First Lieutenant David H. Jarvis, Second Lieutenant Ellsworth P. Bertholf and Dr. Samuel J. Call June 28, 1902 32 Stat. 492 Participants in the Overland Relief Expedition of 1897–98
Ellsworth P. Bertholf Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
First flight2.jpg
Orville and Wilbur Wright March 4, 1909 35 Stat. 1627
Molly brown rescue award titanic.jpg
Captain Arthur Henry Rostron July 6, 1912 37 Stat. 639 Captain of the RMS Carpathia who rescued the survivors of the sunken RMS Titanic at considerable risk to his own ship.
Sir Arthur Henry Rostron Congressional Gold Medal, Merseyside Maritime Museum.png
Paul H. Kreibohm retouched.jpg
Captain Paul H. Kreibohm and others March 19, 1914 38 Stat. 769 For participation in the rescue of passengers and crew of the SS Volturno
Domicio da Gama, RΓ³mulo SebastiΓ‘n NaΓ³n, and Eduardo SuΓ‘rez Mujica March 4, 1915 38 Stat. 1228
Charles Lindbergh and the Spirit of Saint Louis (Crisco restoration, with wings).jpg
Charles Lindbergh May 4, 1928 45 Stat. 490
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Lincoln Ellsworth, Roald Amundsen, and Umberto Nobile May 29, 1928 45 Stat. 2026–2027
Thomas Edison.jpg
Thomas Edison May 29, 1928 45 Stat. 1012
Thomas Edison Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
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First Successful Trans-Atlantic Flight February 9, 1929 45 Stat. 1158 See also NC-4 Medal
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Major Walter Reed and Associates for Yellow Fever Experimentations in Cuba February 28, 1929 45 Stat. 1409–1410 Also see Walter Reed Medal
Walter Reed Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
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Officers and Men of the Byrd Antarctic Expedition May 23, 1930 46 Stat. 379 81 people connected with the expedition were awarded medals: 65 were awarded gold, seven received silver medals, and nine received bronze.[9]
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Lincoln Ellsworth June 16, 1936 49 Stat. 2324
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George Cohan June 29, 1936 49 Stat. 2371
Mrs. Richard Aldrich and Anna Bouligny June 20, 1938 52 Stat. 1365 "Gold medals were given to Mrs. Richard Aldrich and Anna Bouligny some four decades after they served wounded soldiers in Puerto Rico. As part of their 'outstanding, unselfish, and wholly voluntary service,' they set up and worked in hospitals 'for the care and treatment of military patients in Puerto Rico' during the War with Spain. Mrs. Aldrich and Ms. Bouligny 'voluntarily went to Puerto Rico and there rendered service of inestimable value to the Army of the United States in the establishment and operation of hospitals.'"[10]
Howard Hughes.jpg
Howard Hughes August 7, 1939 53 Stat. 1525
Reverend Francis X. Quinn August 10, 1939 53 Stat. 1533 Pastor of the Church of the Guardian Angel in New York City. Honored for risking his life in persuading a gunman holding an elderly couple hostage to surrender to police.[11]
William Sinnott June 15, 1940 54 Stat. 1283
Roland Boucher January 20, 1942 56 Stat. 1099–1100 11-year-old Roland Boucher made national headlines in saving five playmates who fell through the ice of Lake Champlain. No one of his age had been awarded a medal until the young victims of the 16th Street Baptist church bombing were honored in 2013.[12]
Harold P Gilmour-USAS Portrait 1939.jpg
Members of the United States Antarctic Expedition of 1939-1941 September 24, 1945 P.L. 79-185, 59 Stat. 536 "The Secretary of the Navy is authorized and directed to cause to be made at the United States mint such number of gold, silver, and bronze medals of appropriate design as he may deem appropriate and necessary, to be presented to members of the United States Antarctic Expedition of 1939-1941, in recognition of their valuable services to the Nation in the field of polar exploration and science." β€” P.L. 79-185[N 1] also see United States Antarctic Expedition Medal
General George C. Marshall, official military photo, 1946.JPEG
George Catlett Marshall, General of the Army, and Fleet Admiral Ernest Joseph King March 22, 1946 60 Stat. 1134–1135
General John Joseph Pershing head on shoulders.jpg
John J. Pershing, General of the Armies of the United States August 7, 1946 60 Stat. 1297–1298
Billy Mitchell.jpg
Brigadier General Billy Mitchell August 8, 1946 60 Stat. 1319
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Vice President Alben W. Barkley August 12, 1949 P.L. 81-221, 63 Stat. 599
Irving Berlin Portrait2.jpg
Irving Berlin July 16, 1954 P.L. 83-536, 68 Stat. A120
Jonas Salk 1988.jpg
Doctor Jonas Salk August 9, 1955 P.L. 84-297, 69 Stat. 589
Jonas Salk Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
American Civil War Montage 2.jpg
Surviving Veterans of the American Civil War July 18, 1956 P.L. 84-730, 70 Stat. 577 "This medal was awarded about 90 years after the Civil War ended. At the time, there were only four veterans of that war known to still be alive. The medal honored the last surviving veterans 'who served in the Union or the Confederate forces.'"[13]
Surviving Veterans of the War Between the States Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Hyman Rickover inspecting USS Nautilus.jpg
Rear Admiral Hyman Rickover August 28, 1958 P.L. 85-826, 72 Stat. 985 "In recognition of successfully directing the development and construction of the world's first nuclear-powered ships and the first large-scale nuclear power reactor devoted exclusively to the production of electricity" β€” P.L. 85-826
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Doctor Robert Goddard September 16, 1959 P.L. 86-277, 73 Stat. 562-563 "In recognition of his pioneering research on space rockets, missiles, and jet propulsion" (awarded posthumously) β€” P.L. 86-277
Robert Frost NYWTS.jpg
Robert Frost September 13, 1960 P.L. 86-747, 74 Stat. 883 "In recognition of his poetry, which enriched the culture of the United States and the philosophy of the world." β€” P.L. 86-747
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Doctor Thomas Anthony Dooley III May 27, 1961 P.L. 87-42, 75 Stat. 87
Doctor Thomas Anthony Dooley III Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Bob Hope in The Ghost Breakers trailer.JPG
Bob Hope June 8, 1962 P.L. 87-478, 76 Stat. 93
Sam Rayburn
Sam Rayburn, Speaker of the House of Representatives September 26, 1962 P.L. 87-478, 76 Stat. 605
MacArthur Manila.jpg
Douglas MacArthur, General of the Army October 9, 1962 P.L. 87-760, 76 Stat. 760
Walt disney portrait.jpg
Walt Disney May 24, 1968 P.L. 90-316, 82 Stat. 130–131
Churchill portrait NYP 45063.jpg
Sir Winston Churchill May 7, 1969 P.L. 91-12, 83 Stat. 8–9
Roberto Clemente marines shot.jpg
Roberto Clemente May 14, 1973 P.L. 93-33, 87 Stat. 71 The United States has honored several famous sports figures with Congressional Gold Medals among them baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente, a native of Puerto Rico.
Roberto Clemente Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Marian Anderson.jpg
Marian Anderson March 8, 1977 P.L. 95-9, 91 Stat. 19 "Marian Anderson was a world-famous singer who was often treated unfairly. The medal honors her 'highly distinguished and impressive career.' She helped the arts to advance in this country and throughout the world, helped world peace through her performances, her recordings, and her work as United States delegate to the United Nations."[14]
Marian Anderson Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
LTG Ira Eaker.jpg
Lieutenant General Ira Eaker October 10, 1978 P.L. 95-438, 92 Stat. 1060
Robert F. Kennedy 1964.jpeg
Robert Kennedy November 1, 1978 P.L. 95-560, 92 Stat. 2142
John Wayne in Wake of the Red Witch trailer.jpg
John Wayne May 26, 1979 P.L. 96-15, 93 Stat. 32
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Ben Abruzzo, Maxie Anderson, and Larry Newman June 13, 1979 P.L. 96-20, 93 Stat. 45 Awarded for the first manned balloon crossing of the Atlantic ocean in the Double Eagle II
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Hubert Humphrey June 13, 1979 P.L. 96-91, 93 Stat. 46
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American Red Cross December 12, 1979 P.L. 96-138, 93 Stat. 1063
Canadian Ambassador Kenneth D. Taylor OC March 6, 1980 P.L. 96-201, 94 Stat. 79 Canadian Ambassador to Iran who was instrumental in the rescue of American diplomatic staff during the Iran Hostage Crisis, this event became commonly known as the Canadian Caper; he's also a recipient of the Order of Canada.
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Simon Wiesenthal March 17, 1980 P.L. 96-211, 94 Stat. 101
Flag of the United States (Pantone).svg
1980 US Summer Olympic Team July 8, 1980 P.L. 96-306 94 Stat. 937 To recognize the athletes of the 1980 US Summer Olympic team, who forfeited the Moscow games due to the United States boycott to protest the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Because of the high volume of medals needed, Congress authorized the U.S. Mint to forge gold-plated medals in lieu of standard solid gold medals.[15]
Koningin Beatrix in Vries.jpg
Queen Beatrix I of the Netherlands March 22, 1982 P.L. 97-158, 96 Stat. 18–19
Hyman Rickover 1955.jpg
Admiral Hyman Rickover (second time) June 23, 1982 P.L. 97-201, 96 Stat. 126–127
Rickover Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Fred Waring Billboard 2.jpg
Fred Waring August 26, 1982 P.L. 97-246, 96 Stat. 315–316
Joe Louis by van Vechten.jpg
Joe Louis August 26, 1982 P.L. 97-246, 96 Stat. 315–316
1981 Joe Louis Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
Louis L'Amour August 26, 1982 P.L. 97-246, 96 Stat. 315–316
Leo Ryan.jpg
Leo Ryan November 18, 1983 P.L. 98-159, 97 Stat. 992 On November 18, 1978 Congressman Ryan was murdered in Guyana while on a mission to investigate allegations of abuse at an American camp of cult leader Jim Jones. He was awarded the medal posthumously five years later. Ryan is the only U.S. Member of Congress killed in the line of duty.[16]
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Danny Thomas November 29, 1983 P.L. 98-172, 97 Stat. 1119–1120
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Harry S. Truman May 8, 1984 P.L. 98-278, 98 Stat. 173–175
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Lady Bird Johnson May 8, 1984 P.L. 98-278, 98 Stat. 173–175
Lady Bird Johnson Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Elie Wiesel.jpg
Elie Wiesel May 8, 1984 P.L. 98-278, 98 Stat. 173–175
Roy Wilkins at the White House, 30 April, 1968.jpg
Roy Wilkins May 17, 1984 P.L. 98-285, 98 Stat. 186
Roy Wilkins Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
George Gershwin 1937.jpg
George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin August 9, 1985 P.L. 99-86, 99 Stat. 288–289
Natan Sharansky.jpg
Natan Sharansky and Avital Shcharansky May 13, 1986 P.L. 99-298, 100 Stat. 432–433
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Harry Chapin May 20, 1986 P.L. 99-311, 100 Stat. 464
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Aaron Copland September 23, 1986 P.L. 99-418, Stat. 952–953
Mary Lasker.jpg
Mary Lasker December 24, 1987 Pub.L. 100–210,
101 Stat. 1441
Mary Lasker Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Jesse Owens3.jpg
Jesse Owens September 20, 1988 Pub.L. 100–437,
102 Stat. 1717
Jesse Owens Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Andrew Wyeth.jpg
Andrew Wyeth November 9, 1988 Pub.L. 100–639,
102 Stat. 3331–3332
Laurance S. Rockefeller NYWTS.jpg
Laurance Rockefeller May 17, 1990 Pub.L. 101–296,
104 Stat. 197–199
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General Matthew Ridgway November 5, 1990 Pub.L. 101–510,
104 Stat. 1720–1721
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General H. Norman Schwarzkopf April 23, 1991 Pub.L. 102–32,
105 Stat. 175–176
General H. Norman Schwarzkopf Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Colin Powell official Secretary of State photo.jpg
General Colin Powell April 23, 1991 Pub.L. 102–33,
105 Stat. 177–178
General Colin Powell Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson2.jpg The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson November 2, 1994 Pub.L. 103–457,
108 Stat. 4799–4800
RabbiMenachemMendelMedal.jpg
Billy Graham bw photo, April 11, 1966.jpg
Ruth Graham and Billy Graham February 13, 1996 Pub.L. 104–111,
110 Stat. 772–773
Ruth and Billy Graham Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
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Frank Sinatra May 14, 1997 Pub.L. 105–14,
111 Stat. 32–33
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Mother Teresa June 2, 1997 Pub.L. 105–16,
111 Stat. 35–36
Mother Teresa Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Bartolomeo I.jpg
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I October 6, 1997 Pub.L. 105–51,
111 Stat. 117-1171
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Nelson Mandela.jpg
Nelson Mandela July 29, 1998 Pub.L. 105–215,
112 Stat. 895–896
Nelson Mandela Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
101st Airborne at Little Rock Central High.jpg
Little Rock Nine October 21, 1998 Pub.L. 105–277,
112 Stat. 2681-597
"To Jean Brown Trickey, Carlotta Walls LaNier, Melba Patillo Beals, Terrence Roberts, Gloria Ray Karlmark, Thelma Mothershed Wair, Ernest Green, Elizabeth Eckford, and Jefferson Thoma...in recognition of the selfless heroism such individuals exhibited and the pain they suffered in the cause of civil rights by integrating Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas." β€” P.L. 105-277
Little Rock Nine Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Photograph of President and Mrs. Ford Holding Hands While Riding in the President's Limousine on a Chicago, Illinois... - NARA - 186761.tif
Gerald Ford and Betty Ford October 21, 1998 Pub.L. 105–277,
112 Stat. 2681-598
"In recognition of their dedicated public service and outstanding humanitarian contributions to the people of the United States." β€” P.L. 105-277
Rosaparks.jpg
Rosa Parks May 4, 1999 Pub.L. 106–26,
113 Stat. 50–51
Parks defied unjust racial segregation laws on a public transit bus and thus sparked the Montgomery bus boycott, an early victory of the American Civil Rights Movement.
Rosa Parks medal.gif
Theodore Hesburgh December 9, 1999 Pub.L. 106–153,
113 Stat. 1733–1734
John Joseph O'Connor March 3, 2000 Pub.L. 106–175,
114 Stat. 20–21
"To John Cardinal O'Connor, Archbishop of New York, in recognition of his accomplishments as a priest, a chaplain, and a humanitarian." β€” P.L. 106-175
Cardinal O'Connor CGM.jpg
Charles Schulz NYWTS.jpg
Charles Schulz June 20, 2000 Pub.L. 106–225,
114 Stat. 457–458
"Our country owes Charles Schulz a great deal. His comic art has changed American culture and brightened the lives of millions of Americans. This ceremony today offers one tangible way for our country to express thanks to a truly great American." β€” United States Senator Dianne Feinstein, sponsor of the bill.[17]
Charles Schulz Congressional Gold Medal obverse.jpg
JohannesPaul2-portrait.jpg
Pope John Paul II July 27, 2000 Pub.L. 106–250,
114 Stat. 622–623
Speaker of the House of Representatives Dennis Hastert and Representative John Joseph Moakley led a delegation from the U.S. Congress to bring Pope John Paul II the Congressional Gold Medal on January 8, 2001.[18]
2000 Pope John Paul II Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
The Reagans waving from the limousine during the Inaugural Parade 1981.jpg
Ronald Reagan and Nancy Reagan July 27, 2000 Pub.L. 106–251,
114 Stat. 624–625
"I am sure that each and every one of you have your own special memory of Ronald and Nancy Reagan. I know I do. Many Americans remember how the Reagan's (sic) sparked a renewal of hope and optimism in a nation that was beginning to lose faith in the American dream. This renewed patriotism will always remain one of their most enduring legacies. Ronald and Nancy Reagan shared a remarkable grace, a rare charm that set both the American public and world leaders at lease." β€” U.S. Rep. Jim Gibbons, Republican of Nevada, statement made at award ceremony at Rotunda on Capitol Hill.[19]
Reagan Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Navajo Code Talkers.jpg
Navajo Code Talkers December 21, 2000 Pub.L. 106–554,
114 Stat. 2763
"Today, we marked a moment of shared history and shared victory. We recall a story that all Americans can celebrate and every America should know. It is a story of ancient people called to serve in a modern war. It is a story of one unbreakable oral code of the Second World War, messages travelling by field radio on Iwo Jima in the very language heard across the Colorado plateau centuries ago." β€” statement by President George W. Bush when presenting the award on July 26, 2001 at the Capitol Rotunda to four of the five living original 29 American Navajo code talkers, and relatives of the 24 others.[20]

A gold medal was authorized for each of the original 29 Navajo code talkers or a surviving family member. Silver medals were authorized for anyone who qualified as a Navajo code talker (300+), or a surviving family member.
2000 Navajo Code Talkers Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
General Henry Shelton, official portrait 2.jpg
General Hugh Shelton January 16, 2002 Pub.L. 107–127,
115 Stat. 2405–2406
"Throughout his 38 years of service to his country, his ascent through the ranks of the Army, two tours in Vietnam and duty in Operation Desert Storm, Gen. Shelton has carried with him the North Carolina values of service, sacrifice, love of family, faith in God and devotion to country." β€” U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge, who helped write the legislation honoring Shelton.[21]
2002 General Henry H. Shelton Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
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British Prime Minister Tony Blair July 18, 2003  Pub.L. 108–60,
117, Stat. 862–863
"America has many allies, but as we have seen in recent months, we can count on Great Britain to fulfill the duties of a true friend in tough times. I applaud Tony Blair's extraordinary leadership and his continued support of the United States." β€” U.S. Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite, sponsor of the bill in the United States House of Representatives.[22]
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Jackie Robinson October 29, 2003 Pub.L. 108–101,
117 Stat. 1195–1197
"His story is one that shows what one person can do to hold America to account to its founding promise of freedom and equality. It's a lesson for people coming up to see. One person can make a big difference in setting the tone of this country." β€” President George W. Bush, on presenting the award to Robinson's widow Rachel Robinson.[23]
2003 Jackie Robinson Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
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Dr. Dorothy Height December 6, 2003 Pub.L. 108–162,
117 Stat. 2017
"She's a woman of enormous accomplishment. She's a friend of first ladies like Eleanor Roosevelt, Hillary Rodham Clinton. She's known every president since Dwight David Eisenhower. She's told every president what she thinks since Dwight David Eisenhower. Truth of the matter is, she was the giant of the civil rights movement." β€” President George W. Bush, on presenting Height with the award.[24]
2003 Dorothy Height Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
Joseph A. DeLaine, Harry & Eliza Briggs, and Levi Pearson December 15, 2003 Pub.L. 108–180,
117 Stat. 2645–2647
The four filed lawsuits in South Carolina which helped lead to Brown v. Board of Education. "These were ordinary citizens who did an extraordinary thing. Their courage and commitment to fight for a better education for their children in Clarendon County, South Carolina, has benefited generations of children nationwide." β€” Jim Clyburn, Democratic Congressman, helped push the legislation through along with Democratic Senator Ernest Hollings, both of South Carolina.[25]
2003 Brown et al. v. the Board of Education of Topeka et al. Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
Martin Luther King Jr NYWTS 5.jpg
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King October 25, 2004 Pub.L. 108–368,
118 Stat. 1746-1748
"Dr. King had a dream of peace and equality and dedicated his life to achieving that dream. Throughout his brief but remarkable life, Dr. King stood for the causes of freedom, justice and equality." β€” Carl Levin, Democratic Senator from Michigan, pushed through bill in United States Senate.[26]
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Tuskegee Airmen + US Congressional Gold Medals, 2007March29.jpg
Tuskegee Airmen April 11, 2006 Pub.L. 109–213,
120 Stat. 322-325
"The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of 994 African American pilots who gained fame during WWII for their heroism escorting American bombers in raids over Europe and North Africa. Their distinguished service is credited with influencing President Truman to desegregate the U.S. military." β€” Congressman Charles B. Rangel, Press Release.[27]

A single gold medal was struck, to be retained by the Smithsonian Institution.
2006 Tuskegee Airmen Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso September 27, 2006 Pub.L. 109–287, 120 Stat. 1231 In recognition of the Dalai Lama's: "many enduring and outstanding contributions to peace, non-violence, human rights and religious understanding". β€” (Pub.L. 109-287)[28]
2006 Tenzin Gyatso Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
Byron Nelson October 16, 2006 Pub.L. 109–357, 120 Stat. 2044 "The Congressional Gold Medal is given to individuals who exemplify the American spirit by serving their community and helping those less fortunate, which is what Byron Nelson devoted his life to doing. The lives of countless Americans were touched because of the compassion, dedication and generosity of this great Texan." β€” John Cornyn, Republican Senator from Texas.[29]
2006 Byron Nelson Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
Norman Borlaug.jpg
Dr. Norman Borlaug December 6, 2006 Pub.L. 109–395 120 Stat. 2708 "The most fitting tribute we can offer this good man is to renew ourselves to his life's work, and lead a second Green Revolution that feeds the world, and today we'll make a pledge to do so." β€” President George W. Bush, statement at Capitol Rotunda ceremony.[30]
2006 Norman Borlaug Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
Michael DeBakey.jpg
Dr. Michael E. DeBakey October 2, 2007 Pub.L. 110–95
121 Stat. 1008
"Dr. DeBakey’s medical advances have contributed so much to our country and the world. Not only did he perfect the heart transplant procedure which has saved so many lives, but he also invented the M.A.S.H. unit. As a veteran of World War II, he saw our young men dying on the battlefield and was determined to improve medical care to save lives. Dr. DeBakey will receive the Congressional Gold Medal for these lasting contributions." β€” Kay Bailey Hutchison Republican Senator who introduced the legislation.[31]
2007 Michael DeBakey Congressional Gold Medal front.jpg
Aung San Suu Kyi.jpg
Aung San Suu Kyi May 5, 2008 Pub.L. 110–209 122 Stat. 721 "This is a well-deserved honor for a remarkable woman who has led the struggle for freedom and democracy in her country". β€” Mitch McConnell, then-leader of Republican United States Senators and sponsor of effort to award the medal to Suu Kyi.[32]
Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
Constantino brumidi.jpg
Constantino Brumidi July 1, 2008 Pub.L. 110–259
122 Stat. 2430
Presented on July 11, 2012 (posthumously). "'An answer to a prayer' is how the curator for the Architect of the Capitol has described Brumid's arrival in this city at the end of 1854. And rightly so...today the Capitol stands, in my view, as the finest gallery of art in the country. The art here doesn't sit idle on display - every day, it summons the building to life and replenishes the soul of the Congress." β€” John Boehner, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, excerpt of remarks made at presentation ceremony at the Rayburn Room of the Capitol[33]
Congressional Gold Medal Constantino Brumidi.jpg
Edward Brooke.jpg
Edward William Brooke III July 1, 2008 Pub.L. 110–260
122 Stat. 2433
"In recognition of his unprecedented and enduring service to our Nation." β€” P.L. 110-260
Congressional Gold Medal Edward William Brooke.jpg
ChoctawCoders.jpg
Native American code talkers October 15, 2008 Pub.L. 110–420
122 Stat. 4774
To recognize all Native American code talkers not previously awarded on December 21, 2000, a gold medal of individual design to be struck for every tribe that had members who were code talkers in WWI and WWII. The gold medal representing the tribe to be retained by the Smithsonian Institution, with silver duplicates to each individual code talker.

On November 20, 2013, at a ceremony held at Emancipation Hall in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, 25 tribes were honored with medals, with an additional 8 tribes honored whose medals had not yet been struck, for a total of 33 tribes that have been so far identified.[34]
See Code Talker Medals
Group of Women Airforce Service Pilots and B-17 Flying Fortress.jpg
Women Airforce Service Pilots July 1, 2009 Pub.L. 111–40
123 Stat. 1958
"Their motives for wanting to fly airplanes all those years ago wasn't for fame or glory or recognition. They simply had a passion to take what gifts they had and use them to help defend not only America, but the entire free world, from tyranny. And they let no one get in their way." β€” Lt. Col. Nicole Malachowski, first female pilot in the USAF Thunderbirds, remarks made at presentation ceremony on March 10, 2010 in Emancipation Hall of the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center.[35]

A single gold medal was struck, to be retained by the Smithsonian Institution. At the ceremony, every attending WASP and a family member of a deceased WASP received a bronze duplicate (bronze duplicates are typically made available for sale through the U.S. Mint) financed through donations[36]
Congressional Gold Medal WASP.jpg
Neil Armstrong pose.jpg
Aldrin.jpg
Michael collins.jpg
John Glenn Mercury (small).jpg
Neil A. Armstrong,
Edwin E. "Buzz" Aldrin, Jr.,
Michael Collins, and
John Herschel Glenn, Jr.
August 7, 2009 Pub.L. 111–44
123 Stat. 1966
In recognition of their significant contributions to society.

"We stand on the shoulders of the extraordinary men we recognize today...Those of us who have had the privilege to fly in space followed the trail they forged...When, 50 years ago this year, President Kennedy challenged the nation to reach the moon, to 'take longer strides' toward a 'great new American enterprise,' these men were the human face of those words...From Mercury and Gemini, on through our landings on the Moon in the Apollo Program, their actions unfolded the will of a nation for the greater achievement of humankind." β€” Charles F. Bolden, Jr., Administrator of NASA, excerpt of remarks made at presentation ceremony November 16, 2011 at the Rotunda on Capitol Hill.[37]
Congressional Gold Medal Astronauts.jpg
YN3ArnoldPalmer.jpg
Arnold Palmer September 30, 2009 Pub.L. 111–65
123 Stat. 2003
In recognition of his service to the Nation in promoting excellence and good sportsmanship.

"Arnold Palmer is a legend both on and off the golf course...His impact on players, tournaments, fans, sponsors, sports television, volunteers and perhaps most importantly on communities where he worked, lived and competed cannot be measured but is deeply felt and will continue have a tremendous impact for generations." β€” PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem[38]
Congressional Gold Medal Arnold Palmer.jpg
Muhammad Yunus - World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2012.jpg
Muhammad Yunus October 5, 2010 Pub.L. 111–253
124 Stat. 2635
"Professor Yunus set out to do what may be the biggest thing of all, and that is liberating people to seek a better life. And not just any people, but men and women who had only known misery, who had been told they were no good." β€” John Boehner, Speaker of the House of Representatives, excerpt of remarks made at presentation ceremony April 17, 2013 at the Rotunda on Capitol Hill.[39]
Muhammad Yunus Congressional Gold Medal.jpg
100th Infantry Battalion, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and the Military Intelligence Service October 8, 2010 Pub.L. 111–254
124 Stat. 2637
In recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.

A single gold medal was struck, and it was first presented collectively at a ceremony at the U.S Capitol Visitor Center on November 2, 2011. The medal will tour various museums in conjunction with further presentation ceremonies and then be put on permanent display at the Smithsonian Institution[40]
Congressional Gold Medal Nisei Soldiers of WWII.jpg
"A platoon of Negro `boot recruits' listen to their drill instructor (Sgt. Gilbert Hubert Johnson) whose job is to... - NARA - 535866.jpg
Montford Point Marines November 23, 2011 Pub.L. 112–59
125 Stat. 749
In recognition of their personal sacrifice and service to their country.

A single gold medal was struck, and was presented collectively on June 27, 2012 in Emancipation Hall at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. The following day, in a ceremony at Marine Barracks, every attending Montford Point Marine and a family member of a deceased Montford Point Marine was presented with a bronze duplicate (bronze duplicates are typically available for sale through the U.S. Mint) financed through donations.[41]
Congressional Gold Medal Montford Point Marines.jpg
September 11 Photo Montage.jpg
In honor of the men and women who perished as a result of the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001 December 23, 2011 Pub.L. 112–76
125 Stat. 1275
Three gold medals to be struck, one medal shall be given to each of the Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania, the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York, and the Pentagon Memorial at the Pentagon, with the understanding that each medal is to be put on permanent, appropriate display.
Fallen Heroes of NY Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg

Fallen Heroes of PA Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg

Fallen Heroes of VA Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Raoul Wallenberg.jpg
Raoul Wallenberg July 26, 2012 Pub.L. 112–148
126 Stat. 1140
"In recognition of his achievements and heroic actions during the Holocaust." β€” P.L. 112-148 File:Raoul Wallenberg Congressional Gold Medal.pdf
Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Wesley May 24, 2013 Pub.L. 113–11 Congressional gold medal award to victims of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing (H.R. 360; 113th Congress)
Congressional Gold Medal for Victims of 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing.jpg
1st Special Service Force.patch.jpg
First Special Service Force July 12, 2013 Pub.L. 113–16 Granted collectively in recognition of its superior service during World War II.[42]
First Special Service Force Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Members of the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders May 23, 2014 Pub.L. 113–106 "To award a Congressional Gold Medal to the World War II members of the β€œDoolittle Tokyo Raiders”, for outstanding heroism, valor, skill, and service to the United States in conducting the bombings of Tokyo."
American Flying aces May 23, 2014 Pub.L. 113–105 "To award a Congressional Gold Medal to the American Fighter Aces, collectively, in recognition of their heroic military service and defense of our country's freedom throughout the history of aviation warfare."
American Fighter Aces Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
CAP early WWII.jpg
Members of the Civil Air Patrol May 30, 2014 Pub.L. 113–108 Honoring the services of over 200,000 Civil Air Patrol volunteers during World War II.[43][44]
Civil Air Patrol Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Shimon Peres by David Shankbone.jpg
President of the State of Israel Shimon Peres June 9, 2014 Pub.L. 113–114 "Shimon Peres has honorably served Israel for over 70 years, during which he has significantly contributed to United States interests and has played a pivotal role in forging the strong and unbreakable bond between the United States and Israel." [45]
Shimon Peres Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Ghent altarpiece at Altaussee.jpg
"Monuments Men" June 9, 2014 Pub.L. 113–116 "In recognition of their heroic role in the preservation, protection, and restitution of monuments, works of art, and artifacts of cultural importance during and following World War II."
Monuments Men Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
US 65th Infantry Regiment.Painting.Korean War.Bayonet charge against Chinese division.jpg
65th Infantry Regiment June 10, 2014 Pub.L. 113–120 The 65th Infantry is the first Hispanic military unit, and the first unit of the Korean War, to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.[46]
JackNicklaus2006MastersPar3.jpg
Jack Nicklaus December 16, 2014 Pub.L. 113–210 http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/2015/03/24/jack-nicklaus-congressional-gold-medal/70344756/
Jack Nicklaus Congressional Gold Medal (front).jpg
Bloody Sunday-Alabama police attack.jpeg
Selma to Montgomery marchers March 7, 2015 Pub.L. 114–5 "To the Foot Soldiers who participated in Bloody Sunday, Turnaround Tuesday, or the final Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March in March of 1965, which served as a catalyst for the Voting Rights Act of 1965."

See also

Notes

  1. ↑ It is unclear if the gold version is considered a Congressional Gold Medal as this award is not listed on the artandhistory.house.gov webpage for recipients, nor is it listed in the Congressional Research Service report (see "Sources"). Compare to 1930 awards of 1st Byrd Expedition.

References

  1. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  2. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  3. ↑ http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ampage?collId=llac&fileName=010/llac010.db&recNum=312
  4. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  5. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  6. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  7. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  8. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  9. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  10. ↑ Mrs. Richard Aldrich and Anna Bouligny on U.S. Mint H.I.P. Pocket Change website Retrieved 2012-09-20
  11. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  12. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  13. ↑ Surviving Veterans of the War Between the States on US Mint H.I.P Pocket Change website Retrieved 2012-09-21
  14. ↑ Marian Anderson on US Mint H.I.P Pocket Change website Retrieved 2012-09-21
  15. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  16. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  17. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  18. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  19. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  20. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  21. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  22. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  23. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  24. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  25. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  26. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  27. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  28. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  29. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  30. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  31. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  32. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  33. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  34. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  35. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  36. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  37. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  38. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  39. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  40. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  41. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  42. ↑ Congressional Gold Medal granted to First Special Service Force
  43. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  44. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  45. ↑ Bill Text 113th Congress (2013-2014)
  46. ↑ Obama honors Puerto Rican Infantry Regiment with Congressional Gold Medal, Washington Post, June 10, 2014.

Sources

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External links

  • Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found. Search for bills and laws.