Our mission is to support the maintenance, operation, and long-term preservation of Riverside National Cemetery by managing an endowment fund, organizing meaningful national holiday ceremonies, and advancing programs that honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans.

Medal of Honor Memorial

The Medal of Honor Memorial — Riverside National Cemetery

The Medal of Honor Memorial at Riverside National Cemetery is a distinguished and deeply meaningful tribute dedicated to the brave men and women who have received the United States’ highest and most prestigious military decoration — the Medal of Honor. This memorial honors those service members who, through acts of conspicuous gallantry, self-sacrifice, and extraordinary valor above and beyond the call of duty, exemplify the very highest ideals of courage, devotion, and heroism.

Located within the serene and sacred grounds of Riverside National Cemetery — one of the nation’s largest and most active national cemeteries — the Medal of Honor Memorial stands as an enduring symbol of honor, courage, and national gratitude. It is a place where visitors can reflect on the profound sacrifices made by these extraordinary individuals, and where families, fellow veterans, and the public can pay tribute to their legacy.

Design and Symbolism:
The Medal of Honor Memorial is thoughtfully designed to convey the profound significance of the award and the heroism it represents:

  • Central Feature: At the heart of the memorial is a striking and dignified monument that incorporates imagery and symbols associated with the Medal of Honor. Its design reflects both the solemnity of sacrifice and the reverence due to those who have earned America’s highest military honor.
  • Medal of Honor Symbolism: The memorial prominently features representations of the Medal of Honor’s iconic design — the five-pointed star, the symbolic laurel and oak wreath, and the ribbon’s distinctive colors. These elements serve as a powerful reminder of the courage and selflessness exhibited by recipients in times of peril.
  • Inscribed Tributes: Surrounding the central monument may be panels or engraved inscriptions honoring Medal of Honor recipients, notable citations, or inspirational words that speak to valor, freedom, and the cost of service.
  • Reflective Environment: Carefully designed walkways, seating areas, and thoughtful landscaping provide a contemplative setting for visitors to pause, remember, and honor the indelible contributions of Medal of Honor recipients throughout American history.

Meaning and Mission:
The Medal of Honor Memorial exists to ensure that the heroic actions of America’s most distinguished service members are never forgotten — that their sacrifices remain present in the nation’s memory and continue to inspire others. It stands as a testament to:

  • Unwavering valor in the face of danger,
  • Selfless commitment to fellow service members and country,
  • The highest principles of duty and honor.

As part of Riverside National Cemetery’s landscape of remembrance, the Medal of Honor Memorial also serves as a focal point for special observances, educational visits, ceremonies, and patriotic gatherings, inviting all who visit to reflect on the extraordinary acts of bravery that have shaped the nation.