Did you know? 96 men were awarded the Medal of Honor for actions on May 22, 1863, during the Battle of Vicksburg. Their stories remind us of the profound human cost of conflict and the extraordinary heroism displayed in the face of overwhelming odds. The relentless struggle for Vicksburg, culminating in its surrender on July 4, 1863, was a turning point in the Civil War, effectively splitting the Confederacy and granting the Union control of the Mississippi River. Beyond its strategic importance, Vicksburg witnessed incredible acts of bravery and sacrifice. Let us remember the sacrifices made at Vicksburg and honor the legacy of those who, through their valor, helped shape the course of our nation. (fb)

On this day in 1967, Platoon Sergeant Bruce Grandstaff went above and beyond the call of duty while serving our nation during the Vietnam War, for which he would later receive the Medal of Honor. While leading a reconnaissance mission near the Cambodian border, Grandstaff distinguished himself through conspicuous gallantry when his platoon was heavily ambushed. Despite intense fire, he risked his life to aid fallen comrades, adjusted artillery dangerously close to his position, and repeatedly exposed himself to mark enemy locations for helicopter gunships with smoke grenades and tracer rounds, sustaining serious wounds to both legs in the process. Even while enduring extreme pain, he crawled within close range of an enemy machine gun to destroy it with grenades, receiving further wounds before ultimately calling artillery directly onto his own position as the enemy overran them. Grandstaff's selfless actions inspired his severely wounded platoon to fight courageously against overwhelming odds, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy before he was mortally wounded, thus upholding the highest traditions of the U.S. Army. Preserving stories like Grandstaff’s is essential—not only to honor their sacrifice but to inspire future generations with examples of valor, integrity, and service. The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is committed to ensuring these incredible acts of bravery are never forgotten and continue to serve as a beacon of hope and resilience for our nation. (fb)