761st Tank Battalion Congressional Gold Medal Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Palmer, Gary J. [R-AL-6]
- Committees
- Committee on House Administration (primary)
- Last action
- Feb 26, 2025
Bottom line
This bill awards a Congressional Gold Medal to the 761st Tank Battalion for their historic service in World War II and authorizes the creation and sale of duplicate medals.
What it actually does
This bill authorizes the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate to present a Congressional Gold Medal to the 761st Tank Battalion, collectively. It directs the Secretary of the Treasury to design and strike the medal, which will then be given to the National Museum of African American History and Culture for display and research. Additionally, the bill permits the striking and sale of bronze duplicates of the medal, with costs and proceeds managed through the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
Section 3(a)
Authorization for Congressional Gold Medal
This provision directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to make the necessary arrangements for the formal presentation of a Congressional Gold Medal. This prestigious award is to be given, collectively, to the 761st Tank Battalion, recognizing their pivotal and courageous service during World War II. It specifically highlights their crucial role in the success of Allied forces in Europe and their groundbreaking status as the first Black American soldiers to serve in combat as part of an American armored unit, setting an enduring example of bravery and dedication.
Section 3(b) and 3(c)
Medal Design, Production, and Museum Placement
This section outlines the process for the medal's creation and its permanent placement. It mandates that the Secretary of the Treasury design and strike the gold medal with suitable emblems and inscriptions. Following its official presentation, the gold medal is designated to be transferred to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. There, it will be made available for public display and academic research, with Congress expressing a desire for it to also be displayed at other locations relevant to the 761st Tank Battalion's history.
Sections 4, 5, 6
Authorization for Bronze Duplicates and Funding Mechanism
This provision addresses the creation of replicas and the financial aspects of the medal. It authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to produce and sell bronze duplicate medals to the public, with the sale price set to cover all associated costs, including labor, materials, and overhead. The bill explicitly classifies these medals as national medals and numismatic items under federal law. Furthermore, it specifies that the costs for striking all medals under this Act are to be charged against the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund, and any proceeds from the sale of duplicate bronze medals will be deposited back into this fund.