**WASHINGTON** — The House of Representatives has unanimously approved bipartisan legislation that would substantially increase the annual pension for living Medal of Honor recipients, raising it from about $16,880 to $67,500.
The measure passed 424-0. Supporters say the increase would provide meaningful financial support to veterans who received the nation’s highest military decoration for extraordinary valor. Many recipients continue to travel the country speaking at schools, military events and community gatherings, often covering their own expenses.
Reps. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, and Chris Pappas, D-N.H., are among those backing the bill. Lawmakers from both parties described the adjustment as long overdue given rising costs and the ongoing public service many recipients perform.
The federal pension for Medal of Honor recipients dates to 1916, when it began at $10 a month. It was raised to $100 in 1961 and $1,000 in 2002 before reaching its current level. Approximately 60 recipients are living today. Roughly 3,500 Americans have received the award since it was established in 1863.
The higher payments would be financed through Veterans Affairs funding linked to disability compensation. To help offset the cost, the legislation extends an existing limitation on pensions for veterans without spouses or dependents from 2031 to 2033.
The vote comes as the National Medal of Honor Museum prepares to open in Arlington, Texas, creating a permanent institution to preserve the stories of American military heroes. Recent recipients have been recognized for actions spanning World War II, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.
Among those cited are Army Master Sgt. Roddie Edmonds, who protected Jewish American prisoners during World War II; Army Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis, who gave his life protecting an allied soldier in Afghanistan; and retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Terry Richardson, who repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire while rescuing wounded troops in Vietnam. Other honored service members include Marine Col. John Ripley, whose actions at the Dong Ha Bridge helped halt a major enemy advance, and retired Army Maj. Nicholas Dockery, who demonstrated exceptional leadership under intense fire in Afghanistan.
Supporters frame the legislation not only as a financial adjustment but as continued recognition of the sacrifices associated with the Medal of Honor. The bill still requires Senate approval. If enacted, it would represent one of the largest increases to the program in decades and affirm congressional support for those who displayed extraordinary courage in defense of the nation.
