Senator Steve Daines expressed his appreciation for the Senate’s approval of his bipartisan legislation that names U.S. Highway 20, stretching from Oregon to New England, including a portion of Montana, as the “National Medal of Honor Highway.”
In his statement, Senator Daines, the son of a U.S. Marine, emphasized the responsibility to honor the courageous men and women of the armed forces who selflessly defend cherished freedoms. He stated that the “National Medal of Honor Highway” serves as a poignant reminder of American exceptionalism and the sacrifices made by the nation’s heroes.
The Medal of Honor, the highest military award for valor, is presented by the president in Congress’ name to U.S. servicemembers who exhibit conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.
The proposal to redesignate U.S. Highway 20, the longest continuous highway in the United States, as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” aims to pay tribute to every Medal of Honor recipient in the nation. The legislative effort has received support from legislatures and governors in all 12 states along U.S. Highway 20, covering the entire 3,365-mile span of the Medal of Honor Highway across America. These 12 states represent about 62% of all 3,516 Medal of Honor awards given since the Civil War. Designating U.S. Highway 20 as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” ensures recognition for all 3,516 recipients and any future awardees from all 50 states and territories.