East Tennessee Recipients of Medal of Honor

Online Exhibition

Learn About the Individuals Who Displayed Patriotism, Citizenship, Courage, Integrity, Sacrifice, Commitment

On March 25, the nation observes National Medal of Honor Day, honoring more than 3,500 recipients of its highest military award for valor. The tradition began in 1863 with the first Medals of Honor awarded for Civil War bravery, including actions near Chattanooga, now recognized as the birthplace of the Medal of Honor. Tennessee holds a unique legacy, with recipients in every conflict since 1861 and dozens credited to the state. This collection, originally created for the 2022 Medal of Honor Convention in Knoxville, highlights the stories of recipients connected to East Tennessee in chronological order.