76 West Point graduates
There have been 76 West Point graduates who have received the Medal of Honor. On March 25, 1863, the first Medals of Honor were presented. Secretary of War Edwin Stanton presented Medals of Honor to six members of “Andrews Raiders” for their participation in an American Civil War raid in April of 1862.

What is West Point medal?

The Sylvanus Thayer Award is an honor given annually by the United States Military Academy at West Point to an individual whose character and accomplishments exemplifies the motto of West Point. It has been awarded annually since 1958 and is the closest recognition West Point has to granting an honorary degree.

What university has the most Medal of Honor winners?

The University of Washington has the most alumni Medal of Honor Recipients from a public institution, excluding the service academies.

Who went to Westpoint?

West Point has trained most of the great American military commanders since the first half of the 19th century. Among its graduates have been Robert E. Lee (class of 1829), William T. Sherman (1840), James Longstreet (1842), and Ulysses S. Grant (1843).

Who will receive the 2021 Sylvanus Thayer Award?

The West Point Association of Graduates is pleased to announce that Doctor Mae C. Jemison will receive the 2021 Sylvanus Thayer Award. The award will be presented on October 7, 2021 during ceremonies hosted by Lieutenant General Darryl A. Williams, Class of 1983, 60th Superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

What is the Sylvanus Thayer Award at West Point?

Sylvanus Thayer Award. The Sylvanus Thayer Award is an award that is given each year by the United States Military Academy at West Point. Sylvanus Thayer was the fifth superintendent of that academy and in honor of his achievements, the award was created.

Who gave Doctor Jemison the Thayer Award?

West Point Association of Graduates Board Chairman Lieutenant General (USA, Retired) Joseph E. DeFrancisco, Class of 1965, said, “The West Point Association of Graduates is honored to present the Thayer Award to Doctor Jemison.

What is the purpose of the Thayer Award?

“The Thayer Award, established in honor of Col. Sylvanus Thayer, ‘Father of the Military Academy,’ is presented to an outstanding citizen whose service and accomplishments in the national interest exemplify the Military Academy motto, “Duty, Honor, Country.”. The Association of Graduates has presented the award annually since 1958.”.