Former President Donald Trump praised wealthy donor Miriam Adelson at a campaign event in New Jersey, where he stated that she received the “better” award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, compared to the top military honor, the Congressional Medal of Honor. Trump argued that recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor are often deceased or severely injured, while Adelson, a healthy and beautiful woman, received the Medal of Freedom. Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance, have criticized Democratic vice presidential nominee, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, for his military record, with Vance specifically targeting Walz’s decision to retire from the National Guard before deployment to Iraq. Miriam Adelson was awarded the Medal of Freedom in 2018 for her donations to anti-addiction facilities and work as a doctor.
The Congressional Medal of Honor, established in 1861, has been awarded to 3,519 recipients, with 60 living recipients today. The most recent requirements for the honor include distinguishing oneself with gallantry and bravery above and beyond the call of duty in active combat on behalf of the United States. Recipients must have their acts of valor documented and approved by the President and Congress.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established in 1963, has been granted to over 600 civilians for their contributions to the interests of the United States, world peace, or other significant public or private endeavors. The President may unilaterally issue this honor. Trump praised Adelson for her work as a doctor and contributions to Jewish schools and Holocaust memorial organizations.
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