Former President Donald Trump praised Miriam Adelson, a wealthy donor and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, implying that the civilian award is better than the Medal of Honor given to military personnel because those recipients are often deceased or injured. Trump made these comments at a campaign event focused on antisemitism, where he was introduced by Adelson, a major Republican donor and widow of casino mogul Sheldon Adelson. Trump highlighted that Adelson received the highest civilian award possible, comparing it to the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military honor for valor in combat. He noted that Adelson was a healthy, beautiful woman, while recipients of the Medal of Honor are often injured or deceased. Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance, have criticized Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz for his military record, seeking to make military service a focal point in the election.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy to recognize civilians who have contributed to the interests of the United States, world peace, or other significant endeavors. Over 600 civilians have received the honor. In comparison, the Medal of Honor, established in 1861, has been awarded to 3,519 recipients, with 60 living recipients. The Medal of Honor is given to military members who distinguish themselves with gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their lives in combat. The citations accompanying the honor often detail acts of bravery under fire, such as saving fellow military members or civilians.
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