Medal of Honor Access and Liaison Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Bacon, Don [R-NE-2]
- Committees
- Armed Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 17, 2026
Bottom line
This bill enhances recognition and support for Medal of Honor recipients by providing them with expanded access to military facilities and a dedicated Department of Defense liaison.
What it actually does
This bill amends title 10, U.S. Code, to grant Medal of Honor recipients unaccompanied access to any military installation and the Pentagon through a common access card. It also establishes a new position within the Department of Defense, the Medal of Honor Liaison, to serve as a primary point of contact and coordinator for recipients and their families across federal entities.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill provides fitting recognition and practical support for Medal of Honor recipients, honoring their extraordinary service and sacrifice. The enhanced access and dedicated liaison would streamline administrative processes and ensure these national heroes receive the respect and assistance they deserve from the Department of Defense.
Opponents contend
No direct opposition is typically raised against measures that honor Medal of Honor recipients. Potential concerns, if any, might revolve around the administrative costs of establishing a new liaison position or the security implications of expanded access, though these are generally considered minor in comparison to the symbolic value.
The bill is very short and clearly written, allowing for a quick and comprehensive understanding of its provisions.
Section 2(a)
Unaccompanied Access to Military Installations for Medal of Honor Recipients
This provision amends existing law to ensure that all individuals listed on the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard Medal of Honor Roll are issued a common access card (or equivalent identification). This card will grant them unaccompanied access to any military installation and the Pentagon, recognizing their distinguished service with enhanced privileges.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is a small but meaningful gesture to honor Medal of Honor recipients, providing them with practical benefits and a visible symbol of their esteemed status. It simplifies their access to facilities they are intrinsically linked to through their service.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against this provision, as it is seen as a respectful and minor administrative change for a highly revered group. Any concerns about security or administrative burden are generally outweighed by the symbolic value.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension is balancing enhanced access for a distinguished group with general security protocols for military installations. However, given the small number of recipients and their vetted status, this tension is minimal.
Section 2(b)
Department of Defense Medal of Honor Liaison
This section establishes a new position within the Department of Defense: a Medal of Honor Liaison, appointed by the Secretary of Defense. This liaison will serve as a central point of contact for MOH recipients and their families, coordinating departmental efforts, assisting with replacement decorations, standardizing protocols, performing public affairs, and making recommendations regarding active duty service for recipients.