Heroism is complex in the United States of 2026. This nation finds itself divided, where even the concept of patriotism is disputed. Heroes to one group may be seen as villains to another. People cling to conflicting narratives and the gulf between them widens.

In such times, it is crucial to focus on an undeniable form of heroism: the acts of valor recognized by the Medal of Honor, the U.S. military’s highest award. The criteria for this medal, defined by federal law, are stringent. To qualify, a service member must perform an action in direct combat that far exceeds duty, often at great personal risk or sacrifice. The process involves rigorous investigation and final presidential approval. Despite over 40 million Americans having served, only 3,536 have received this honor. This underlines its limited but specific scope. The medal isn’t reserved for achievement in civilian life or non-combat roles.

“It wasn’t courage that gave me the will to do what I had to do in Vietnam,” Sgt. Sammy Davis said. “It was the love for my brothers.” Davis, a Medal of Honor recipient in 1968, saved three soldiers under heavy fire.

The Medal of Honor reflects two core elements of the American experiment. The first is individual liberty, a theme often discussed since the nation’s inception. However, the second, equally significant, is collective unity. The American Revolution succeeded because 13 disparate colonies united. This principle echoes in the founding documents and statements like Benjamin Franklin’s: “We must all hang together, or, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately.” The Constitution begins with “We,” emphasizing community strength over individual isolation.

Thomas Jefferson, in his 1801 inaugural address, highlighted the need for unity among a divided populace. He warned that liberty without communal bonds amounts to vulnerability. The Medal of Honor is an emblem of this dual heritage. It celebrates decisions that prioritize others above personal accolades, embodying love rather than abstract patriotism. This theme resonates through every Medal of Honor story.

In marking America’s 250th birthday, Newsweek honors these valiant individuals in collaboration with the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington. They showcase 250 stories of sacrifice, a fraction of the courageous actions that helped build the nation.

A Single Decision Made Under Fire

The Medal of Honor originates from a time when American unity was severely tested. In 1861, during the Civil War, Senator James W. Grimes proposed a reward for naval bravery. Soon after, Senator Henry Wilson introduced a similar proposition for the Army. Today, distinct versions exist for the Navy, Army, and Air Force.

Recipients of the Medal, now totaling 3,536, have diverse backgrounds. They include Native American leaders, immigrants, and even future presidents. They fought across more than 20 conflicts. The common thread among them is a choice made under extreme pressure.

“[Medal of Honor recipients] chose something extraordinary when it mattered,” said Cory Crowley from the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation. It represents potential when individuals prioritize others.

A notable example involves Col. Jack Jacobs. During a deadly ambush in Vietnam, he took command to evacuate soldiers, repeatedly endangering himself to rescue the wounded. He recalled knowing that action was necessary, as many were incapacitated.

‘You Don’t Think About Your Own Fear’

Spc. 5 Jim McCloughan was preparing to teach and coach when conscripted to Vietnam in 1968. He described his actions as fulfilling his role as a medic among his unit. He earned the medal for a mission on Nui Yon Hill, where he repeatedly defied enemy fire to save soldiers, ignoring his own injuries.

“I thought about what I needed to do to save that other individual,” McCloughan said. The adrenaline overshadowed fear as he focused on helping others.

Returning to civilian life, McCloughan continued as an educator, representing the 89 soldiers from his battle who never returned. He underscores that those awarded the Medal viewed their actions as obligatory rather than extraordinary.

“We’re not asking you to do the impossible,” said Crowley. The theme that all can embrace is focusing on others in critical moments.

Courage isn’t limited to military settings. It’s essential daily. Col. Jacobs emphasized moral courage’s necessity for future success. “These lessons from combat must also guide civilian life,” he concluded.