Today is Medal of Honor Day (March 25, 2026) in the United States.
Established by President Abraham Lincoln in 1861, the Medal of Honor is the highest military honor awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who distinguish themselves through acts of valor performed above and beyond the call of duty. Each recipient’s bravery embodies the spirit of service and selflessness that defines America’s armed forces.
According to the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, to date, more than 3,500 service members have received the Medal of Honor. Their heroism spans U.S. conflicts from the Civil War to the Global War on Terrorism.
A Medal of Honor tribute is displayed on the first floor of the west wing of the State Capitol, honoring 10 veterans with ties to South Dakota. Each name is accompanied by the community where their memorial (if there is one) can be found:
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U.S. Army, Brigadier General Charles D. Roberts (Fort Meade)
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U.S. Army, Captain Willibald C. Bianchi (Brookings)
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U.S. Marine Corps, Captain Joe J. Foss (Sioux Falls)
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U.S. Army, Captain Arlo L. Olson (Toronto)
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U.S. Marine Corps, Private First-Class Herbert A. Littleton (Spearfish)
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U.S. Army Master Sergeant Woodrow W. Keeble (Sisseton)
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U.S. Air Force, Colonel Leo K. Thorsness (Brookings)
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U.S. Air Force, Colonel George E. “Bud” Day (Vermillion)
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U.S. Army, General Patrick H. Brady (Hot Springs)
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U.S. Army, Specialist Four Michael J. Fitzmaurice (Hot Springs)
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U.S. Navy, Captain Elmer Royce Williams
“Medal of Honor Day reminds us that freedom is not simply given, but safeguarded through extraordinary courage and unwavering sacrifice,” said Jeremiah Scheider, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. “The heroes we honor today faced unimaginable challenges and chose valor over fear, showing us that true strength lies in selfless service. Their legacy calls on us to live with the same resolve, to support those who serve, and to ensure that their example continues to light the path for generations to come.”
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