Texas Medal of Honor Memorial facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Texas Medal of Honor Memorial |
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| Artist | Doyle Glass |
| Year | 2008 |
| Location | North Central Texas College Library, Gainesville, Texas |
| Owner | Commemorative Air Force, Ground Forces Detachment |
The Texas Medal of Honor Memorial is a special statue. It honors people from Texas who received the Medal of Honor. This medal is the highest award for bravery a person can get in the United States military.
The statue was created by Doyle Glass and Scott Boyer. It was first shown to the public on Memorial Day in 2008 in Midland, Texas. Later, in 2018, the memorial moved to Gainesville, Texas. You can now see it at the North Central Texas College Library. It's open for everyone to visit.
The memorial shows George H. O'Brien, Jr., who earned the Medal of Honor during the Korean War. The statue is a large bronze figure standing on a rock. Below it, a granite base lists the names of many Texans who received this important medal.
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Texans Who Earned the Medal of Honor
Many brave Texans have received the Medal of Honor for their amazing courage. These heroes served in different wars and conflicts throughout history.
From Early Conflicts
Texans earned the Medal of Honor during the American Indian Wars and the Spanish–American War. They also received it during the Philippine–American War and the Mexican Campaign.
World War I Heroes
During World War I, several Texans showed incredible bravery. They were recognized for their actions in this major global conflict.
World War II Heroes
World War II saw many Texans step up with great courage. Heroes like Audie Murphy from Kingston, Texas, became famous for their incredible acts. He was one of the most decorated soldiers of the war.
Korean War Heroes
Texans continued to serve with distinction in the Korean War. They earned the Medal of Honor for their bravery in battles during this challenging time.
Vietnam War Heroes
The Vietnam War also had many Texans who received the Medal of Honor. One well-known hero is Roy Benavidez, who performed amazing acts of courage to save his fellow soldiers.
Texans Honored Elsewhere
Some Medal of Honor recipients were born in Texas but joined the military in other states. Their awards are linked to those states, even though they started their lives in Texas.
A Special Story: Milton M. Holland
One very important Texan who received the Medal of Honor was Milton M. Holland. He was born into slavery in Texas in 1844. During the American Civil War, he served as a Sergeant Major in the Fifth U.S. Colored Troops.
On September 29, 1864, his unit was in a tough battle near Richmond, Virginia. All of his officers were either killed or hurt. Even though he was wounded himself, Sergeant Major Holland took charge. He bravely led his comrades to capture a Confederate position. For his incredible leadership and courage, he received the Medal of Honor on April 6, 1865. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery when he passed away in 1910.
