The Medal of Honor was instituted in 1861 and is awarded for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty in action involving actual with opposing armed forces. It is the highest military honor awarded in the United States. This medal was awarded to Floyd Bennett for participating with Richard Byrd on first flight over the North Pole on May 9, 1926.
Citation: For distinguishing himself conspicuously by courage and intrepidity at the risk of his life as a member of the Byrd Arctic Expedition and thus contributing largely to the success of the first heavier-than-air flight to the North Pole and return.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
AWARDS-Medals & Ribbons
Physical Description
United States Navy Medal of Honor; gold medal cross; Obverse: anchor in each arm of cross, eagle in center disk, embossed text "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 1917-1918; Reverse: inscription Awarded to Machinist Floyd Bennett USN for Flight over the North Pole May 9, 1926"; light blue silk ribbon with white stars; gold ribbon bar with embossed text "VALOUR".
Dimensions
3-D: 8.4 × 3.5 × 0.6cm (3 5/16 × 1 3/8 × 1/4 in.)
Materials
Natural Fabric
Gold Alloy
Inventory Number
A19630333000
Credit Line
Donated by Mrs. Cora Bennett Hoffman
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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