# List of Congressional Gold Medal recipients

Below is a list of recipients of the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the United States Congress.

## Recipients of Continental Congress Gold Medals

| Recipient(s) | Date of approval | Public law | Notes |
| George Washington | March 25, 1776 | Continental Congress | Awarded to Washington "and the officers and soldiers under his command" in honor of the liberation of Boston, first major city liberated from British occupation. Later led the Continental Army to victory in the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783). Presented to Washington March 21, 1790 and currently resides at the Boston Public Library. See also: Washington Before Boston Medal |
| Major General Horatio Gates | November 4, 1777 | Continental Congress | Victor in Saratoga campaign. The medal is currently in the possession of the New York Historical Society. |
| Major General Anthony Wayne | July 26, 1779 | Continental Congress | Commander at the Battle of Stony Point. The medal is currently in the possession of the Pennsylvania Society of Sons of the Revolution. |
| Major Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee | September 24, 1779 | Continental Congress | Commander at the Battle of Paulus Hook. Only non-general to receive a gold medal during the American Revolutionary War |
| Brigadier General Daniel Morgan | March 9, 1781 | Continental Congress | Commander at the Battle of Cowpens. In 1836 Congress (5 Stat. 66) authorized a duplicate be struck to replace the lost original, and be presented to Morgan Neville, his lineal heir |
| Major General Nathanael Greene | October 29, 1781 | Continental Congress | Commander at the Battle of Eutaw Springs |
| Captain John Paul Jones | October 16, 1787 | Continental Congress | "For his 'valor and brilliant services' during the Battle of Flamborough Head eight years earlier. Jones became the first and only Continental Navy officer to receive this distinction for his service during the American Revolution." |

## Recipients of Congressional Gold Medals

| Recipient(s) | Recipient(s) | Date of approval | Public law | Notes | Medal |
| | Captain Thomas Truxtun | March 29, 1800 | 2 Stat. 87 | Commander of the USS Constellation during the battle against the French frigate La Vengeance | |
| | Commodore Edward Preble | March 3, 1805 | 2 Stat. 346–347 | For 1804 attacks on Tripoli during the First Barbary War | |
| | Captain Isaac Hull Captain Stephen Decatur Captain Jacob Jones | January 29, 1813 | 2 Stat. 830 | For action against the Guerriere, Macedonian, and Frolic during the War of 1812. Silver duplicates awarded to their commissioned officers on board. | |
| | Captain William Bainbridge | March 3, 1813 | 2 Stat. 831 | Commander of the USS Constitution during her capture of HMS Java. Silver duplicates awarded to his commissioned officers on board. The medal is currently possessed by the USS Constitution Museum. | |
| | Captain Oliver Hazard Perry Captain Jesse D. Elliott | January 6, 1814 | 3 Stat. 141 | Victors of the Battle of Lake Erie. Silver medals authorized for their commissioned officers on board. | |
| | Lieutenant William W. Burrows II and Lieutenant Edward McCall | January 6, 1814 | 3 Stat. 141–142 | For capture of HMS Boxer; awarded posthumously to Burrows, who was killed in action. Silver duplicates awarded to his commissioned officers on board. | |
| | Captain James Lawrence | January 11, 1814 | 3 Stat. 142 | Awarded posthumously for capture of HMS Peacock. Silver medals awarded to his commissioned officers on board. | |
| | Captain Thomas Macdonough Captain Robert Henley Lieutenant Stephen Cassin | October 20, 1814 | 3 Stat. 245–246 | Heroes of Battle of Plattsburgh | |
| | Captain Lewis Warrington | October 21, 1814 | 3 Stat. 246 | For capture of HMS Epervier. Silver duplicates awarded to his commissioned officers on board. | |
| | Captain Johnston Blakeley | November 3, 1814 | 3 Stat. 246–247 | For capture of HMS Reindeer. Silver duplicates awarded to his commissioned officers on board. | |
| | Major General Jacob Brown | November 3, 1814 | 3 Stat. 247 | Commander at the Battles of Chippawa, Niagara, and Erie | |
| | Major General Winfield Scott | November 3, 1814 March 9, 1848 | 3 Stat. 247 9 Stat. 333 | For actions at the battles of Chippawa and Niagara (War of 1812) For actions during the Siege of Veracruz (Mexican–American War) | |
| | Major General Peter Buell Porter Brigadier General Eleazar Ripley Colonel James Miller | November 3, 1814 | 3 Stat. 247 | For their actions at the battles of Chippawa, Niagara, and Erie | |
| | Major General Edmund P. Gaines | November 3, 1814 | 3 Stat. 247 | For his actions on 15 August 1814 at the Battle of Erie (now known as the Siege of Fort Erie) | |
| | Major General Alexander Macomb | November 3, 1814 | 3 Stat. 247 | For his actions on 11 September 1814 at The Battle of Plattsburgh | |
| | Major General Andrew Jackson | February 27, 1815 | 3 Stat. 249 | For the defense of New Orleans in the War of 1812 | |
| | Captain Charles Stewart | February 22, 1816 | 3 Stat. 341 | For the capture of HMS Cyane and HMS Levant. Silver medals awarded to his commissioned officers on board. | |
| | Captain James Biddle | February 22, 1816 | 3 Stat. 341 | For the capture of HMS Penguin. Silver medals awarded to his commissioned officers on board. | |
| | Major General William Henry Harrison and Governor Isaac Shelby | April 4, 1818 | 3 Stat. 476 | Victors of the Battle of the Thames | |
| | Colonel George Croghan | February 13, 1835 | 4 Stat. 792 | For the defense of Fort Stephenson | |
| | Major General Zachary Taylor | July 16, 1846 March 2, 1847 May 9, 1848 | 9 Stat. 111 9 Stat. 206 9 Stat. 334–335 | For distinguished achievements during military operations along the Rio Grande For meritorious achievements at the Battle of Monterrey For valor at the Battle of Buena Vista Only individual to be awarded three times, all for his Mexican–American War accomplishments | |
| | Rescuers of the Officers and Crew of the U.S. Brig Somers | March 3, 1847 | 9 Stat. 208 | Awarded to officers and men of French, British, and Spanish ships who rescued officers and men of the Somers during the Mexican–American War. | |
| | Commander Duncan Ingraham | August 4, 1854 | 10 Stat. 594–595 | For his role in the Koszta Affair | |
| | Frederick Rose (surgeon) | May 11, 1858 | 11 Stat. 369 | For caring for, and traveling with, the sailors on his ship suffering from yellow fever. | |
| | Major General Ulysses S. Grant | December 17, 1863 | 13 Stat. 399 | For gallantry and good conduct of himself and his troops in battles of the rebellion. The medal is currently possessed by the Smithsonian. | |
| | Cornelius Vanderbilt | January 28, 1864 | 13 Stat. 401 | For donating his steamship Vanderbilt to the Union | |
| | Captain Robert Creighton Captain Edwin J. Low Captain George C. Stouffer | July 26, 1866 | 14 Stat. 365–366 | For rescuing "about 500" Americans from the wreck of the steamship San Francisco | |
| | Cyrus West Field | March 2, 1867 | 14 Stat. 574 | For establishing the first Transatlantic telegraph cable | |
| | George Peabody | March 16, 1867 | 15 Stat. 20 | For giving $2,000,000 for the promotion of education in the more destitute portions of the southern and southwestern States. | |
| | George F. Robinson | March 1, 1871 | 16 Stat. 704 | For actions to protect William H. Seward during an assassination attempt and save his life afterwards. | |
| | Captain Jared Crandall and Others | February 24, 1873 | 17 Stat. 638 | For rescue operations involving the steamer Metis. Statute does not specifically call for gold medals to the ten individuals cited (including Crandall), instead leaves it to the discretion of the President. Unclear if any were gold. | |
| | John Horn Jr. | June 20, 1874 April 28, 1904 | 18 Stat. 573 33 Stat. 1684–1685 | Noted lifesaver. 1904 medal was a re-issue of the earlier award, which Horn claimed had been stolen. Customarily, the Secretary of the Treasury had issued duplicate medals upon the submission of absolute proof that showed the originals had been irrecoverably lost or destroyed. Since such proof was absent in Horn's case, congressional approval was necessary before the medal could be replaced. | |
| | John Fox Slater | February 5, 1883 | 22 Stat. 636 | United States philanthropist known for assisting in the education of emancipated African American slaves. | |
| | Joseph Francis | August 27, 1888 | 25 Stat. 1249 | Inventor of life-saving tools. The medal is currently possessed by the Smithsonian. | |
| | Chief Engineer George Wallace Melville and Others | September 30, 1890 | 26 Stat. 552–553 | To commemorate the perils encountered during the Jeannette Expedition. 8 gold and 25 silver medals were struck, in decoration form, suspended from a ribbon. | |
| | First Lieutenant Frank H. Newcomb | May 3, 1900 | 31 Stat. 716 | For heroism as commanding officer of USRC Hudson during the Battle of Cardenas, 1898. The officers and men of Hudson received silver and bronze versions of the gold medal. | |
| | First Lieutenant David H. Jarvis, Second Lieutenant Ellsworth P. Bertholf and Dr. Samuel J. Call | June 28, 1902 | 32 Stat. 492 | Participants in the Overland Relief Expedition of 1897–98 | |
| | Orville and Wilbur Wright | March 4, 1909 | 35 Stat. 1627 | In recognition of their invention of the airplane and contributions to aerial navigation. | |
| | Captain Arthur Henry Rostron | July 6, 1912 | 37 Stat. 639 | Captain of the RMS Carpathia who rescued the survivors of the sunken RMS Titanic at considerable risk to his own ship. | |
| | Captain Paul H. Kreibohm and others | March 19, 1914 | 38 Stat. 769 | For participation in the rescue of passengers and crew of the SS Volturno | |
| | Domício da Gama, Rómulo Sebastián Naón, and Eduardo Suárez Mujica | March 4, 1915 | 38 Stat. 1228 | In recognition of the valuable services of these distinguished statesmen as mediators in the controversy between the government of the United States of America and the leaders of the warring parties in the Republic of Mexico. | |
| | Charles Lindbergh | May 4, 1928 | 45 Stat. 490 | In recognition of his contributions to aerial navigation by flying solo non-stop from New York to Paris. | |
| | Lincoln Ellsworth, Roald Amundsen, and Umberto Nobile | May 29, 1928 | 45 Stat. 2026–2027 | In recognition of their contributions to polar exploration. | |
| | Thomas Edison | May 29, 1928 | 45 Stat. 1012 | For development and application of inventions that revolutionized civilizations. | |
| | First Successful Trans-Atlantic Flight | February 9, 1929 | 45 Stat. 1158 | See also: NC-4 Medal | |
| | Major Walter Reed and Associates for Yellow Fever Experimentations in Cuba | February 28, 1929 | 45 Stat. 1409–1410 | See also: Walter Reed Medal | |
| | Officers and Men of the Byrd Antarctic Expedition | May 23, 1930 | 46 Stat. 379 | 81 people connected with the expedition were awarded the Byrd Antarctic Expedition Medal: 65 were awarded gold, seven received silver medals, and nine received bronze. | |
| | Lincoln Ellsworth | June 16, 1936 | 49 Stat. 2324 | To recognize exploration that led to U.S. claims to 350,000 square miles in Antarctica, and for his 2,500-mile aerial survey of Antarctica's interior | |
| | George Cohan | June 29, 1936 | 49 Stat. 2371 | For contributions to American musical culture through authoring and popularizing patriotic songs in wartime. | |
| | Mrs. Richard Aldrich and Anna Bouligny | June 20, 1938 | 52 Stat. 1365 | "Gold medals were given to Mrs. Richard Aldrich and Anna Bouligny some four decades after they served wounded soldiers in Puerto Rico. As part of their 'outstanding, unselfish, and wholly voluntary service,' they set up and worked in hospitals 'for the care and treatment of military patients in Puerto Rico' during the War with Spain. Mrs. Aldrich and Ms. Bouligny 'voluntarily went to Puerto Rico and there rendered service of inestimable value to the Army of the United States in the establishment and operation of hospitals.'" May have been the first women awarded this medal. | |
| | Howard Hughes | August 7, 1939 | 53 Stat. 1525 | For advancing the science of aviation | |
| | Reverend Francis X. Quinn | August 10, 1939 | 53 Stat. 1533 | Pastor of the Church of the Guardian Angel in New York City. Honored for risking his life in persuading a gunman holding an elderly couple hostage to surrender to police. | |
| | William Sinnott | June 15, 1940 | 54 Stat. 1283 | In recognition of his actions to protect President-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt during a February 1933 assassination attempt | |
| | Roland L. Boucher | January 20, 1942 | 56 Stat. 1099–1100 | 11-year-old Roland L. Boucher (1929–1978) of Burlington, Vermont made national headlines in February 1941 when he saved five playmates who fell through the ice of Lake Champlain. (One died while being treated after being pulled from the water.) No one else of his age had been awarded the Congressional Gold Medal until the young victims of the 16th Street Baptist church bombing were honored in 2013. | |
| | Members of the United States Antarctic Expedition of 1939–1941 | September 24, 1945 | P.L. 79-185, 59 Stat. 536 | "The Secretary of the Navy is authorized and directed to cause to be made at the United States mint such number of gold, silver, and bronze medals of appropriate design as he may deem appropriate and necessary, to be presented to members of the United States Antarctic Expedition of 1939–1941, in recognition of their valuable services to the Nation in the field of polar exploration and science." — P.L. 79-185 See also: United States Antarctic Expedition Medal | |
| | George Catlett Marshall, General of the Army, and Fleet Admiral Ernest Joseph King | March 22, 1946 | 60 Stat. 1134–1135 | In recognition of their leadership in developing the U.S. strategy for fighting in World War II, overseeing the expansion of the Army and Navy to carry it out, and successfully implementing it | |
| | John J. Pershing, General of the Armies of the United States | August 7, 1946 | 60 Stat. 1297–1298 | For heroic achievements as commander of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I | |
| | Brigadier General Billy Mitchell | August 8, 1946 | 60 Stat. 1319 | To recognize his foresight and service to military aviation | |
| | Vice President Alben W. Barkley | August 12, 1949 | P.L. 81-221, 63 Stat. 599 | For his distinguished public service and outstanding contribution to improving the country's general welfare | |
| | Irving Berlin | July 16, 1954 | P.L. 83-536, 68 Stat. A120 | For contributions to American musical culture services by composing wartime patriotic songs including "God Bless America" | |
| | Doctor Jonas Salk | August 9, 1955 | P.L. 84-297, 69 Stat. 589 | In recognition of his discovery of a serum for the prevention of poliomyelitis | |
| | Surviving Veterans of the American Civil War | July 18, 1956 | P.L. 84-730, 70 Stat. 577 | "This medal was awarded about 90 years after the Civil War ended. At the time, there were only four veterans of that war known to still be alive. The medal honored the last surviving veterans 'who served in the Union or the Confederate forces.'" | |
| | Rear Admiral Hyman Rickover | August 28, 1958 | P.L. 85-826, 72 Stat. 985 | "In recognition of successfully directing the development and construction of the world's first nuclear-powered ships and the first large-scale nuclear power reactor devoted exclusively to the production of electricity" — P.L. 85-826 | |
| | Doctor Robert Goddard | September 16, 1959 | P.L. 86-277, 73 Stat. 562–563 | "In recognition of his pioneering research on space rockets, missiles, and jet propulsion" (awarded posthumously) — P.L. 86-277 | |
| | Robert Frost | September 13, 1960 | P.L. 86-747, 74 Stat. 883 | "In recognition of his poetry, which enriched the culture of the United States and the philosophy of the world." — P.L. 86-747 | |
| | Doctor Thomas Anthony Dooley III | May 27, 1961 | P.L. 87-42, 75 Stat. 87 | For his service in meeting the medical needs of the people of Laos and other developing countries. | |
| | Bob Hope | June 8, 1962 | P.L. 87-478, 76 Stat. 93 | For his contributions to entertainment and culture, and the service he rendered his country through his efforts with the United Service Organizations. | |
| Sam Rayburn | Sam Rayburn, Speaker of the House of Representatives | September 26, 1962 | P.L. 87-478, 76 Stat. 605 | To acknowledge the accomplishments of his many years in public service. | |
| | Douglas MacArthur, General of the Army | October 9, 1962 | P.L. 87-760, 76 Stat. 760 | In recognition of the gallant service he rendered throughout his military career. | |
| | Walt Disney | May 24, 1968 | P.L. 90-316, 82 Stat. 130–131 | For outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry, which benefited United States and world culture. | |
| | Sir Winston Churchill | May 7, 1969 | P.L. 91-12, 83 Stat. 8–9 | In honor of the dedication of the Winston Churchill Memorial and Library at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri. To be presented to the widow of Sir Winston, with the marred (to prevent duplication) die donated to the museum for display purposes. | |
| | Roberto Clemente | May 14, 1973 | P.L. 93-33, 87 Stat. 71 | The United States has honored several famous sports figures with Congressional Gold Medals among them baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente, a native of Puerto Rico. | |
| | Marian Anderson | March 8, 1977 | P.L. 95-9, 91 Stat. 19 | "Marian Anderson was a world-famous singer who was often treated unfairly. The medal honors her 'highly distinguished and impressive career.' She helped the arts to advance in this country and throughout the world, helped world peace through her performances, her recordings, and her work as United States delegate to the United Nations." | |
| | Lieutenant General Ira Eaker | October 10, 1978 | P.L. 95-438, 92 Stat. 1060 | To commemorate his distinguished career as an aviation pioneer and Air Force leader. | |
| | Robert F. Kennedy | November 1, 1978 | P.L. 95-560, 92 Stat. 2142 | For distinguished and dedicated service to the people of the United States during his career in government. | |
| | John Wayne | May 26, 1979 | P.L. 96-15, 93 Stat. 32 | In recognition of his distinguished career as an actor and his service to the Nation.--PL 96-15 | |
| | Ben Abruzzo, Maxie Anderson, and Larry Newman | June 13, 1979 | P.L. 96-20, 93 Stat. 45 | Awarded for the first manned balloon crossing of the Atlantic ocean in the Double Eagle II | |
| | Hubert Humphrey | June 13, 1979 | P.L. 96-91, 93 Stat. 46 | Presented to Mrs. Hubert H. Humphrey, "in recognition of the distinguished and dedicated service which her late husband gave to the Government and to the people of the United States." | |
| | American Red Cross | December 12, 1979 | P.L. 96-138, 93 Stat. 1063 | In recognition of its unselfish and humanitarian service to the people of the United States. | |
| | Canadian Ambassador Kenneth D. Taylor OC | March 6, 1980 | P.L. 96-201, 94 Stat. 79 | Canadian Ambassador to Iran who was instrumental in the rescue of American diplomatic staff during the Iran Hostage Crisis, this event became commonly known as the Canadian Caper; he is also a recipient of the Order of Canada. | |
| | Simon Wiesenthal | March 17, 1980 | P.L. 96-211, 94 Stat. 101 | Presented in "recognition of his contribution to international justice through the documentation and location of war criminals from World War II." | |
| | 1980 US Summer Olympic Team | July 8, 1980 | P.L. 96-306 94 Stat. 937 | To recognize the athletes of the 1980 US Summer Olympic team, who forfeited the Moscow games due to the United States boycott to protest the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Because of the high volume of medals needed, Congress authorized the U.S. Mint to forge gold-plated medals in lieu of standard solid gold medals. The medals' status as official Congressional Gold Medals was unclear until confirmed by the Clerk of the House of Representatives in 2007. | |
| | Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands | March 22, 1982 | P.L. 97-158, 96 Stat. 18–19 | In recognition of the 1982 bicentennial anniversary of diplomatic and trade relations between the Netherlands and the United States. | |
| | Admiral Hyman Rickover (second time) | June 23, 1982 | P.L. 97-201, 96 Stat. 126–127 | For his world-renowned contributions to the development of nuclear energy and the defense of the United States. | |
| | Fred Waring | August 26, 1982 | P.L. 97-246, 96 Stat. 315–316 | In recognition of his contribution to enriching American life. | |
| | Joe Louis | August 26, 1982 | P.L. 97-246, 96 Stat. 315–316 | In recognition of his boxing career, which bolstered the spirit of the American people during the Great Depression and World War II. | |
| | Louis L'Amour | August 26, 1982 | P.L. 97-246, 96 Stat. 315–316 | To acknowledge his distinguished career as an author and his contributions to the Nation through his historically based works | |
| | Leo Ryan | November 18, 1983 | P.L. 98-159, 97 Stat. 992 | On November 18, 1978, Congressman Ryan was murdered in Guyana while on a mission to investigate allegations of abuse at an American camp of cult leader Jim Jones. He was awarded the medal posthumously five years later. Ryan is the only U.S. Member of Congress killed in the line of duty. | |
| | Danny Thomas | November 29, 1983 | P.L. 98-172, 97 Stat. 1119–1120 | To recognize his lifetime of humanitarian and charitable works. | |
| | Harry S. Truman | May 8, 1984 | P.L. 98-278, 98 Stat. 173–175 | In recognition of the lifetime of outstanding public service. | |
| | Lady Bird Johnson | May 8, 1984 | P.L. 98-278, 98 Stat. 173–175 | In recognition of her conservation and beautification efforts, including the Highway Beautification Act. | |
| | Elie Wiesel | May 8, 1984 | P.L. 98-278, 98 Stat. 173–175 | For humanitarian leadership in documenting and preserving the memory of The Holocaust. | |
| | Roy Wilkins | May 17, 1984 | P.L. 98-285, 98 Stat. 186 | For his incomparable contribution to the struggle for civil rights and equality. | |
| | George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin | August 9, 1985 | P.L. 99-86, 99 Stat. 288–289 | In recognition of their contributions to American music, theater, and culture. | |
| | Natan Sharansky and Avital Sharansky | May 13, 1986 | P.L. 99-298, 100 Stat. 432–433 | In recognition of their work to advance religious liberty and human rights. | |
| | Harry Chapin | May 20, 1986 | P.L. 99-311, 100 Stat. 464 | To recognize his efforts to alleviate world hunger. | |
| | Aaron Copland | September 23, 1986 | Pub. L. 99–418, Stat. 952–953 | For incomparable contributions to American musical composition. | |
| | Mary Lasker | December 24, 1987 | Pub. L. 100–210, 101 Stat. 1441 | To recognize her work to encourage medical research and raise public awareness of killing and crippling diseases. | |
| | Jesse Owens | September 20, 1988 | Pub. L. 100–437, 102 Stat. 1717 | In recognition of the late Jesse Owens' athletic achievements and humanitarian contributions to public service, civil rights, and international goodwill.--PL 100-437 (awarded posthumously) | |
| | Andrew Wyeth | November 9, 1988 | Pub. L. 100–639, 102 Stat. 3331–3332 | In recognition of outstanding and invaluable contributions to American art and culture. | |
| | Laurance Rockefeller | May 17, 1990 | Pub. L. 101–296, 104 Stat. 197–199 | For contributions to environmental conservation and historic preservation. | |
| | General Matthew Ridgway | November 5, 1990 | Pub. L. 101–510, 104 Stat. 1720–1721 | For serving with honor and distinction during a military career of more than 40 years. | |
| | General H. Norman Schwarzkopf | April 23, 1991 | Pub. L. 102–32, 105 Stat. 175–176 | In recognition of his exemplary performance in coordinating the US and allied combat action that liberated Kuwait. | |
| | General Colin Powell | April 23, 1991 | Pub. L. 102–33, 105 Stat. 177–178 | In recognition of his exemplary performance in planning and coordinating the US military response to the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. | |
| | The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson | November 2, 1994 | Pub. L. 103–457, 108 Stat. 4799–4800 | In recognition of his outstanding and enduring contributions toward world education, morality, and acts of charity.--PL 103-457 | |
| | Ruth Graham and Billy Graham | February 13, 1996 | Pub. L. 104–111 (text) (PDF), 110 Stat. 772–773 | For lasting contributions to racial equality, philanthropy, and religion. | |
| | Frank Sinatra | May 14, 1997 | Pub. L. 105–14 (text) (PDF), 111 Stat. 32–33 | In recognition of his outstanding and enduring contributions through his entertainment career and numerous humanitarian activities.--PL 105-14 | |
| | Mother Teresa | June 2, 1997 | Pub. L. 105–16 (text) (PDF), 111 Stat. 35–36 | To recognize her outstanding humanitarian and charitable activities. | |
| | Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I | October 6, 1997 | Pub. L. 105–51 (text) (PDF), 111 Stat. 117-1171 | In recognition of his outstanding and enduring contributions to peace and religious understanding. | |
| | Nelson Mandela | July 29, 1998 | Pub. L. 105–215 (text) (PDF), 112 Stat. 895–896 | For dedication to the abolition of apartheid promotion of reconciliation among the people of South Africa. | |
| | Little Rock Nine | October 21, 1998 | Pub. L. 105–277 (text) (PDF), 112 Stat. 2681-597 | "To Jean Brown Trickey, Carlotta Walls LaNier, Melba Patillo Beals, Terrence Roberts, Gloria Ray Karlmark, Thelma Mothershed Wair, Ernest Green, Elizabeth Eckford, and Jefferson Thoma...in recognition of the selfless heroism such individuals exhibited and the pain they suffered in the cause of civil rights by integrating Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas." — P.L. 105-277 | |
| | Gerald Ford and Betty Ford | October 21, 1998 | Pub. L. 105–277 (text) (PDF), 112 Stat. 2681-598 | "In recognition of their dedicated public service and outstanding humanitarian contributions to the people of the United States." — P.L. 105-277 | |
| | Rosa Parks | May 4, 1999 | Pub. L. 106–26 (text) (PDF), 113 Stat. 50–51 | Parks defied unjust racial segregation laws on a public transit bus and thus sparked the Montgomery bus boycott, an early victory of the American Civil Rights Movement. | |
| | Theodore Hesburgh | December 9, 1999 | Pub. L. 106–153 (text) (PDF), 113 Stat. 1733–1734 | For his outstanding and enduring contributions to civil rights, higher education, and the Catholic Church. | |
| | John Joseph O'Connor | March 3, 2000 | Pub. L. 106–175 (text) (PDF), 114 Stat. 20–21 | "To John Cardinal O'Connor, Archbishop of New York, in recognition of his accomplishments as a priest, a chaplain, and a humanitarian." — P.L. 106-175 | |
| | Charles Schulz | June 20, 2000 | Pub. L. 106–225 (text) (PDF), 114 Stat. 457–458 | "Our country owes Charles Schulz a great deal. His comic art has changed American culture and brightened the lives of millions of Americans. This ceremony today offers one tangible way for our country to express thanks to a truly great American." — United States Senator Dianne Feinstein, sponsor of the bill. | |
| | Pope John Paul II | July 27, 2000 | Pub. L. 106–250 (text) (PDF), 114 Stat. 622–623 | Speaker of the House of Representatives Dennis Hastert and Representative John Joseph Moakley led a delegation from the U.S. Congress to bring Pope John Paul II the Congressional Gold Medal on January 8, 2001. | |
| | Ronald Reagan and Nancy Reagan | July 27, 2000 | Pub. L. 106–251 (text) (PDF), 114 Stat. 624–625 | "I am sure that each and every one of you have your own special memory of Ronald and Nancy Reagan. I know I do. Many Americans remember how the Reagan's [sic] sparked a renewal of hope and optimism in a nation that was beginning to lose faith in the American dream. This renewed patriotism will always remain one of their most enduring legacies. Ronald and Nancy Reagan shared a remarkable grace, a rare charm that set both the American public and world leaders at ease." — U.S. Rep. Jim Gibbons, Republican of Nevada, statement made at award ceremony at Rotunda on Capitol Hill. | |
| | Navajo Code Talkers | December 21, 2000 | Pub. L. 106–554 (text) (PDF), 114 Stat. 2763 | "Today, we marked a moment of shared history and shared victory. We recall a story that all Americans can celebrate and every America should know. It is a story of ancient people called to serve in a modern war. It is a story of one unbreakable oral code of the Second World War, messages traveling by field radio on Iwo Jima in the very language heard across the Colorado plateau centuries ago." — statement by President George W. Bush when presenting the award on July 26, 2001, at the Capitol Rotunda to four of the five living original 29 American Navajo code talkers, and relatives of the 24 others. A gold medal was authorized for each of the original 29 Navajo code talkers or a surviving family member. Silver medals were authorized for anyone who qualified as a Navajo code talker (300+), or a surviving family member. | |
| | General Hugh Shelton | January 16, 2002 | Pub. L. 107–127 (text) (PDF), 115 Stat. 2405–2406 | "Throughout his 38 years of service to his country, his ascent through the ranks of the Army, two tours in Vietnam and duty in Operation Desert Storm, Gen. Shelton has carried with him the North Carolina values of service, sacrifice, love of family, faith in God and devotion to country." — U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge, who helped write the legislation honoring Shelton. | |
| | British Prime Minister Tony Blair | July 18, 2003 | Pub. L. 108–60 (text) (PDF), 117, Stat. 862–863 | "America has many allies, but as we have seen in recent months, we can count on Great Britain to fulfill the duties of a true friend in tough times. I applaud Tony Blair's extraordinary leadership and his continued support of the United States." — U.S. Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite, sponsor of the bill in the United States House of Representatives. | |
| | Jackie Robinson | October 29, 2003 | Pub. L. 108–101 (text) (PDF), 117 Stat. 1195–1197 | "His story is one that shows what one person can do to hold America to account to its founding promise of freedom and equality. It's a lesson for people coming up to see. One person can make a big difference in setting the tone of this country." — President George W. Bush, on presenting the award to Robinson's widow Rachel Robinson. | |
| | Dr. Dorothy Height | December 6, 2003 | Pub. L. 108–162 (text) (PDF), 117 Stat. 2017 | "She's a woman of enormous accomplishment. She's a friend of first ladies like Eleanor Roosevelt, Hillary Rodham Clinton. She's known every president since Dwight David Eisenhower. She's told every president what she thinks since Dwight David Eisenhower. Truth of the matter is, she was the giant of the civil rights movement." — President George W. Bush, on presenting Height with the award. | |
| | Joseph A. DeLaine, Harry & Eliza Briggs, and Levi Pearson | December 15, 2003 | Pub. L. 108–180 (text) (PDF), 117 Stat. 2645–2647 | The four filed lawsuits in South Carolina which helped lead to Brown v. Board of Education. "These were ordinary citizens who did an extraordinary thing. Their courage and commitment to fight for a better education for their children in Clarendon County, South Carolina, has benefited generations of children nationwide." — Jim Clyburn, Democratic Congressman, helped push the legislation through along with Democratic Senator Ernest Hollings, both of South Carolina. | |
| | Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King | October 25, 2004 | Pub. L. 108–368 (text) (PDF), 118 Stat. 1746–1748 | "Dr. King had a dream of peace and equality and dedicated his life to achieving that dream. Throughout his brief but remarkable life, Dr. King stood for the causes of freedom, justice and equality." — Carl Levin, Democratic Senator from Michigan, pushed through bill in United States Senate. | |
| | Tuskegee Airmen | April 11, 2006 | Pub. L. 109–213 (text) (PDF), 120 Stat. 322–325 | "The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of 994 African American pilots who gained fame during WWII for their heroism escorting American bombers in raids over Europe and North Africa. Their distinguished service is credited with influencing President Truman to desegregate the U.S. military." — Congressman Charles B. Rangel, Press Release. A single gold medal was struck, to be retained by the Smithsonian Institution. | |
| | The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso | September 27, 2006 | Pub. L. 109–287 (text) (PDF), 120 Stat. 1231 | In recognition of the Dalai Lama's: "many enduring and outstanding contributions to peace, non-violence, human rights and religious understanding". — (Pub.L. 109-287) | |
| | Byron Nelson | October 16, 2006 | Pub. L. 109–357 (text) (PDF), 120 Stat. 2044 | "The Congressional Gold Medal is given to individuals who exemplify the American spirit by serving their community and helping those less fortunate, which is what Byron Nelson devoted his life to doing. The lives of countless Americans were touched because of the compassion, dedication and generosity of this great Texan." — John Cornyn, Republican Senator from Texas. | |
| | Dr. Norman Borlaug | December 6, 2006 | Pub. L. 109–395 (text) (PDF) 120 Stat. 2708 | "The most fitting tribute we can offer this good man is to renew ourselves to his life's work, and lead a second Green Revolution that feeds the world, and today we'll make a pledge to do so." — President George W. Bush, statement at Capitol Rotunda ceremony. | |
| | Dr. Michael E. DeBakey | October 2, 2007 | Pub. L. 110–95 (text) (PDF) 121 Stat. 1008 | "Dr. DeBakey's medical advances have contributed so much to our country and the world. Not only did he perfect the heart transplant procedure which has saved so many lives, but he also invented the M.A.S.H. unit. As a veteran of World War II, he saw our young men dying on the battlefield and was determined to improve medical care to save lives. Dr. DeBakey will receive the Congressional Gold Medal for these lasting contributions." — Kay Bailey Hutchison Republican Senator who introduced the legislation. | |
| | Aung San Suu Kyi | May 5, 2008 | Pub. L. 110–209 (text) (PDF) 122 Stat. 721 | "This is a well-deserved honor for a remarkable woman who has led the struggle for freedom and democracy in her country". — Mitch McConnell, then-leader of Republican United States Senators and sponsor of effort to award the medal to Suu Kyi. | |
| | Constantino Brumidi | July 1, 2008 | Pub. L. 110–259 (text) (PDF) 122 Stat. 2430 | Presented on July 11, 2012 (posthumously). "'An answer to a prayer' is how the curator for the Architect of the Capitol has described Brumid's arrival in this city at the end of 1854. And rightly so...today the Capitol stands, in my view, as the finest gallery of art in the country. The art here doesn't sit idle on display – every day, it summons the building to life and replenishes the soul of the Congress." — John Boehner, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, excerpt of remarks made at presentation ceremony at the Rayburn Room of the Capitol. | |
| | Edward William Brooke III | July 1, 2008 | Pub. L. 110–260 (text) (PDF) 122 Stat. 2433 | "In recognition of his unprecedented and enduring service to our Nation." — P.L. 110-260 | |
| | Native American code talkers | October 15, 2008 | Pub. L. 110–420 (text) (PDF) 122 Stat. 4774 | To recognize all Native American code talkers not previously awarded on December 21, 2000, a gold medal of individual design to be struck for every tribe that had members who were code talkers in World War I and World War II. The gold medal representing the tribe to be retained by the Smithsonian Institution, with silver duplicates to each individual code talker. On November 20, 2013, at a ceremony held at Emancipation Hall in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, 25 tribes were honored with medals, with an additional 8 tribes honored whose medals had not yet been struck, for a total of 33 tribes that have been so far identified. | See Code Talker Medals |
| | Women Airforce Service Pilots | July 1, 2009 | Pub. L. 111–40 (text) (PDF) 123 Stat. 1958 | "Their motives for wanting to fly airplanes all those years ago wasn't for fame or glory or recognition. They simply had a passion to take what gifts they had and use them to help defend not only America, but the entire free world, from tyranny. And they let no one get in their way." — Lt. Col. Nicole Malachowski, first female pilot in the USAF Thunderbirds, remarks made at presentation ceremony on March 10, 2010 in Emancipation Hall of the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. A single gold medal was struck, to be retained by the Smithsonian Institution. At the ceremony, every attending WASP and a family member of a deceased WASP received a bronze duplicate (bronze duplicates are typically made available for sale through the U.S. Mint) financed through donations. | |
| | Neil A. Armstrong, Edwin E. "Buzz" Aldrin Jr., Michael Collins, and John Herschel Glenn Jr. | August 7, 2009 | Pub. L. 111–44 (text) (PDF) 123 Stat. 1966 | In recognition of their significant contributions to society. "We stand on the shoulders of the extraordinary men we recognize today...Those of us who have had the privilege to fly in space followed the trail they forged...When, 50 years ago this year, President Kennedy challenged the nation to reach the moon, to 'take longer strides' toward a 'great new American enterprise,' these men were the human face of those words...From Mercury and Gemini, on through our landings on the Moon in the Apollo Program, their actions unfolded the will of a nation for the greater achievement of humankind." — Charles F. Bolden Jr., Administrator of NASA, excerpt of remarks made at presentation ceremony November 16, 2011, at the Rotunda on Capitol Hill. | |
| | Arnold Palmer | September 30, 2009 | Pub. L. 111–65 (text) (PDF) 123 Stat. 2003 | In recognition of his service to the Nation in promoting excellence and good sportsmanship. "Arnold Palmer is a legend both on and off the golf course...His impact on players, tournaments, fans, sponsors, sports television, volunteers and perhaps most importantly on communities where he worked, lived and competed cannot be measured but is deeply felt and will continue have a tremendous impact for generations." — PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem. | |
| | Muhammad Yunus | October 5, 2010 | Pub. L. 111–253 (text) (PDF) 124 Stat. 2635 | "Professor Yunus set out to do what may be the biggest thing of all, and that is liberating people to seek a better life. And not just any people, but men and women who had only known misery, who had been told they were no good." — John Boehner, Speaker of the House of Representatives, excerpt of remarks made at presentation ceremony April 17, 2013, at the Rotunda on Capitol Hill. | |
| | The 100th Infantry Battalion, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and the Military Intelligence Service | October 8, 2010 | Pub. L. 111–254 (text) (PDF) 124 Stat. 2637 | In recognition of their dedicated service during World War II. A single gold medal was struck, and it was first presented collectively at a ceremony at the U.S Capitol Visitor Center on November 2, 2011. The medal will tour various museums in conjunction with further presentation ceremonies and then be put on permanent display at the Smithsonian Institution. | |
| | Montford Point Marines | November 23, 2011 | Pub. L. 112–59 (text) (PDF) 125 Stat. 749 | In recognition of their personal sacrifice and service to their country. A single gold medal was struck, and was presented collectively on June 27, 2012, in Emancipation Hall at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. The following day, in a ceremony at Marine Barracks, every attending Montford Point Marine and a family member of a deceased Montford Point Marine was presented with a bronze duplicate (bronze duplicates are typically available for sale through the U.S. Mint) financed through donations. | |
| | In honor of the men and women who perished as a result of the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001 | December 23, 2011 | Pub. L. 112–76 (text) (PDF) 125 Stat. 1275 | Three gold medals to be struck, one medal shall be given to each of the Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania, the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York, and the Pentagon Memorial at the Pentagon, with the understanding that each medal is to be put on permanent, appropriate display. | |
| | Raoul Wallenberg | July 26, 2012 | Pub. L. 112–148 (text) (PDF) 126 Stat. 1140 | "In recognition of his achievements and heroic actions during the Holocaust." — P.L. 112-148 | |
| | Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Wesley | May 24, 2013 | Pub. L. 113–11 (text) (PDF) | Congressional gold medal award to victims of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing (H.R. 360; 113th Congress) | |
| | First Special Service Force | July 12, 2013 | Pub. L. 113–16 (text) (PDF) | Granted collectively in recognition of its superior service during World War II. | |
| | Members of the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders | May 23, 2014 | Pub. L. 113–106 (text) (PDF) | "To award a Congressional Gold Medal to the World War II members of the "Doolittle Tokyo Raiders", for outstanding heroism, valor, skill, and service to the United States in conducting the bombings of Tokyo." | |
| | American Flying aces | May 23, 2014 | Pub. L. 113–105 (text) (PDF) | "To award a Congressional Gold Medal to the American Fighter Aces, collectively, in recognition of their heroic military service and defense of our country's freedom throughout the history of aviation warfare." | |
| | WWII members of the Civil Air Patrol | May 30, 2014 | Pub. L. 113–108 (text) (PDF) | Honoring the services of over 200,000 Civil Air Patrol volunteers during World War II. | |
| | President of the State of Israel Shimon Peres | June 9, 2014 | Pub. L. 113–114 (text) (PDF) | "Shimon Peres has honorably served Israel for over 70 years, during which he has significantly contributed to United States interests and has played a pivotal role in forging the strong and unbreakable bond between the United States and Israel." | |
| | "Monuments Men" aka members of the Monuments, Fine Arts, and Archives Section under the Allied Armies | June 9, 2014 | Pub. L. 113–116 (text) (PDF) | "In recognition of their heroic role in the preservation, protection, and restitution of monuments, works of art, and artifacts of cultural importance during and following World War II." Living recipients who attended the ceremony included Harry Ettlinger and Motoko Fujishiro Huthwaite. | |
| | 65th Infantry Regiment | June 10, 2014 | Pub. L. 113–120 (text) (PDF) | The 65th Infantry is the first Hispanic military unit, and the first unit of the Korean War, to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. | |
| | Jack Nicklaus | December 16, 2014 | Pub. L. 113–210 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of his service to the Nation in promoting excellence and good sportsmanship (PL 113-210). | |
| | Selma to Montgomery marchers | March 7, 2015 | Pub. L. 114–5 (text) (PDF) | "To the Foot Soldiers who participated in Bloody Sunday, Turnaround Tuesday, or the final Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March in March of 1965, which served as a catalyst for the Voting Rights Act of 1965." | |
| | Filipino World War II Veterans | December 14, 2016 | Pub. L. 114–265 (text) (PDF) | Senate Bill 1555 was introduced by Senator Mazie Hirono (HI) and the House companion bill was introduced by Representative Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02). | |
| | Office of Strategic Services | December 14, 2016 | Pub. L. 114–269 (text) (PDF) | In commemoration to the members of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), in recognition of their superior service and major contributions during World War II.--PL 114-269 | |
| | Bob Dole | September 15, 2017 | Pub. L. 115–60 (text) (PDF) | In recognition for his service to the nation as a soldier, legislator, and statesman. (PL 115-60). | |
| | Anwar Sadat Centennial Celebration Act | December 13, 2018 | Pub. L. 115–310 (text) (PDF) | To award the Congressional Gold Medal to Anwar Sadat in recognition of his heroic achievements and courageous contributions to peace in the Middle East. | |
| | Larry Doby | December 17, 2018 | Pub. L. 115–322 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of his achievements and contributions to American major league athletics, civil rights, and the Armed Forces during World War II. | |
| Chinese-American soldier training at Fort Knox, Kentucky | Chinese American Veterans of World War II | December 20, 2018 | Pub. L. 115–337 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of their dedicated service during World War II. | |
| | The crew of the USS Indianapolis | December 20, 2018 | Pub. L. 115–338 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of their perseverance, bravery, and service to the United States. To be given to the Indiana War Memorial Museum in Indianapolis, Indiana for appropriate display. | |
| | Steve Gleason | January 3, 2019 | Pub. L. 115–415 (text) (PDF) | "Following his diagnosis, Steve, with the loving support of his wife, Michel, began a mission to show that patients can not only live but thrive after a diagnosis of ALS and established The Gleason Initiative Foundation also known simply as 'Team Gleason'." Gleason is the first NFL player to receive the award. | |
| | Katherine Johnson | November 8, 2019 | Pub. L. 116–68 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of her service to the United States as a mathematician. | |
| | Christine Darden | November 8, 2019 | Pub. L. 116–68 (text) (PDF) | For her service to the United States as an aeronautical engineer. | |
| | Dorothy Vaughan | November 8, 2019 | Pub. L. 116–68 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of her service to the United States during the Space Race. | |
| | Mary Jackson | November 8, 2019 | Pub. L. 116–68 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of her service to the United States during the Space Race. | |
| | Unnamed recipients | November 8, 2019 | Pub. L. 116–68 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of all the women who served as computers, mathematicians, and engineers at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) between the 1930s and the 1970s. | |
| | Merrill's Marauders | October 17, 2020 | Pub. L. 116–170 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of their bravery and outstanding service in the jungles of Burma (Myanmar) during World War II. | |
| | World War II Rosie the Riveters | December 3, 2020 | Pub. L. 116–195 (text) (PDF) | " to the women in the United States who joined the workforce during World War II, providing the aircraft, vehicles, weaponry, ammunition and other material to win the war, that were referred to as 'Rosie the Riveter', in recognition of their contributions to the United States and the inspiration they have provided to ensuing generations." |
| | Greg LeMond | December 4, 2020 | Pub. L. 116–208 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of his service to the Nation as an athlete, activist, role model, and community leader. | |
| | U.S. Capitol Police and Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia officers | August 5, 2021 | Pub. L. 117–32 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of the law enforcement agencies that protected the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. | |
| | 369th Infantry Regiment | August 25, 2021 | Pub. L. 117–38 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of the regiment, commonly known as the Harlem Hellfighters, for their bravery and outstanding service during World War I. | |
| | The 13 servicemembers killed in action at Kabul International Airport | December 16, 2021 | Pub. L. 117–72 (text) (PDF) | In recognition for going above and beyond the call of duty to protect citizens of the United States and our allies to ensure they are brought to safety in an extremely dangerous situation as the Taliban regained control over Afghanistan and exemplified extreme bravery and valor against armed enemy combatants. Servicemembers listed: Maxton Soviak, Kareem Nikoui, David Espinoza, Rylee McCollum, Jared Schmitz, Hunter Lopez, Taylor Hoover, Daegan William-Tyeler Page, Nicole Gee, Humberto Sanchez, Dylan Merola, Johanny Rosario Pichardo, and Ryan Knauss. | |
| | Willie O'Ree | January 31, 2022 | Pub. L. 117–84 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of his extraordinary contributions and commitment to hockey, inclusion, and recreational opportunity. | |
| | The 23rd Headquarters Special Troops and the 3133rd Signal Services Company | February 1, 2022 | Pub. L. 117–85 (text) (PDF) | The "Ghost Army," a 1,100-man WW II U.S. Army tactical deception unit officially known as the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, saved between 20,000 and 30,000 Allied lives. Their activity was kept secret for more than 40-years, until it was declassified in 1996. | |
| WAC 6888th | The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion | March 14, 2022 | Pub. L. 117–97 (text) (PDF) | All-female, all-black battalion deployed during World War Two who sorted mail in England and France; includes Romay Davis | |
| | World War II Merchant Marine | May 19, 2022 | Pub. L. 116–125 (text) (PDF) | The Merchant Mariners who delivered 15 million tons of goods in war materials to five continents and who served as part of the U.S. Military to deliver supplies and personnel to foreign countries engulfed in the war. A higher proportion of Merchant Mariners lost their lives between 1939 and 1945 than any military branch. | |
| | Ben Ferencz | December 29, 2022 | Pub. L. 117–328 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of his service to the United States and the international community during the post-World War II Nuremberg trials and his lifelong advocacy for international criminal justice and the rule of law. |
| | Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley | January 5, 2023 | Pub. L. 117–334 (text) (PDF) | To "honor the legacy of Emmett Till and the incredible suffering and equally incredible courage, resilience, and efforts of Mamie Till-Mobley that led to the civil rights movement that began in the 1950s." | |
| | Dustoff Crews of the Vietnam War | September 26, 2024 | Pub. L. 118–87 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of their extraordinary heroism and life-saving actions in Vietnam. | |
| | Billie Jean King | September 26, 2024 | Pub. L. 118–88 (text) (PDF) | In recognition of her courageous and groundbreaking leadership in advancing equal rights for women in athletics, education, and society. | |