Trump Honors Two with Medals of Honor During State of the Union
During a recent State of the Union address, President Donald Trump honored two American service members with the prestigious Medal of Honor. This event took place in front of a joint session of Congress at the U.S. Capitol.
Medal of Honor Recipients
The recipients are Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover and retired Navy Capt. Elmer Royce Williams. They were recognized for extraordinary acts of bravery that exemplify the highest standards of military service.
Eric Slover: Operation Absolute Resolve
Eric Slover was acknowledged for his significant role in a military operation aimed at capturing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. This operation, named Absolute Resolve, occurred in early January.
Despite sustaining multiple injuries during the mission, Slover displayed remarkable determination. He piloted a Chinook helicopter while facing heavy machine gun fire and successfully delivered commandos necessary for the operation.
Trump praised Slover’s bravery, stating, “The success of the entire mission depended on his ability to take searing pain.” Slover’s wife, Amy, along with Lt. Gen. Jonathan Braga, witnessed the awarding of the medal.
Elmer Royce Williams: A Legacy of Valor
Elmer Royce Williams, a centenarian, was honored for his aerial combat prowess during the Korean War. Having served in three wars, Williams flew over 220 missions throughout his military career.
The president described an intense encounter in 1952, where Williams’ squadron faced seven Soviet fighter jets. Despite being outnumbered, he led the charge that resulted in the downing of four enemy planes, all while his aircraft endured severe damage.
First Lady Melania Trump presented the Medal of Honor to Williams, celebrating his extraordinary contributions and resilience in combat.
Historical Significance of the Medal of Honor
The Congressional Medal of Honor represents the highest military honor in the United States. Since its inception, more than 3,500 individuals have received this honor, recognizing exceptional acts of valor.
- Eric Slover: Awarded for Operation Absolute Resolve in January 2026.
- Elmer Royce Williams: Honored for his actions during the Korean War in 1952.
These awards serve as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice exhibited by members of the armed forces in defending the nation. President Trump expressed gratitude to both service members for their heroism during the State of the Union address.
