Hershel Woody Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act
Impact
If enacted, HB2717 will facilitate the placement of a memorial to Medal of Honor recipients near the Lincoln Memorial, thus integrating it into the landscape of American history. This location is significant, as it is a site already steeped in national remembrance. The bill makes a clear statement about the importance of recognizing military service and the sacrifices made by service members, affirming this recognition in a space that attracts millions of visitors each year. By choosing this location, the bill seeks to inspire future generations by showcasing the valor displayed by heroes of the nation.
Summary
House Bill 2717, formally known as the Hershel Woody Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act, proposes the establishment of a commemorative monument on the National Mall dedicated to honoring the extraordinary acts of valor, selfless service, and sacrifices made by Medal of Honor recipients. This bill emphasizes the historical importance of the Medal of Honor, which has been awarded since 1863, to recognize individuals who have displayed exceptional courage in combat. The bill aims to ensure that the contributions of these heroic individuals are formally acknowledged and celebrated in a prominent national location.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB2717 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, with expressions of support for honoring military veterans and their sacrifices. Lawmakers and advocates see the establishment of a monument as a critical way to recognize the valor and selflessness of Medal of Honor recipients. The initiative is framed as enhancing the narrative of national pride and respect for those who serve, with bipartisan support indicated in discussions surrounding the bill. Opponents are minimal as the focus remains on honoring service rather than on contentious legislative issues.
Contention
While the primary purpose of HB2717 is widely supported, discussions could raise questions about the allocation of resources for monument installation among competing national priorities. Some voices may highlight challenges pertaining to land use and whether new monuments should be introduced over existing landscapes. However, no significant contention has surfaced that challenges the necessity of recognizing Medal of Honor recipients, ensuring the bill stands as a testament to valor within a national landscape.
Hershel "Woody" Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location ActThis bill requires the authorized monument honoring Medal of Honor recipients to be located within the Reserve (the great cross-axis of the National Mall, which generally extends from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and from the White House to the Jefferson Memorial).
To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to Joseph M. Perez for acts of valor while serving as a member of the Army during the Vietnam War.