The Medal of Honor was established during a tumultuous period in American history, specifically the Civil War, which lasted from 1861 to 1865. Recognizing the need to honor acts of extraordinary bravery by Union soldiers, the United States Congress passed legislation to create the Medal of Honor. This decision was conceived as a way to increase morale among troops and to provide formal acknowledgment for remarkable acts of courage amidst the chaos of war. The original legislation allowed for the medal to be awarded to enlisted personnel and later to officers for acts of valor. Initially, it was limited to the Army, but later, separate medals were created for the Navy and the Air Force. The first recipients were awarded the medal later that same year, highlighting immediate support for the initiative. The design of the Medal of Honor depicts an image of the goddess Minerva, representing wisdom, with a starburst in the background, symbolizing valor. The circular medal is suspended from a blue ribbon, and it has become a powerful emblem of heroism and sacrifice. Over the decades, the Medal of Honor has evolved in its criteria for awarding, but its significance as the highest military decoration remains unchanged. Thousands of individuals have received this honor, which provides a legacy of bravery and valor, inspiring future generations. The inception of the Medal of Honor had profound implications for how military service and bravery were recognized in the United States. It fostered a culture of honor and heritage associated with military service, which has only deepened through the years and reflected societal values regarding courage and sacrifice in the name of freedom and duty. The Medal of Honor also spurred changes in the practices of military recognition, leading to the creation of additional awards and ranks of merit in the armed forces.