H.R. 1628: 761st Tank Battalion Congressional Gold Medal Act

This bill, known as the 761st Tank Battalion Congressional Gold Medal Act, aims to honor the 761st Tank Battalion, also referred to as the Black Panthers, by awarding them a Congressional Gold Medal. This award recognizes their significant contributions to the success of Allied forces during World War II, particularly in the European Theater, and commemorates their role as the first predominantly Black armored unit in the U.S. military.

Key Elements of the Bill

Findings

The bill outlines several important findings regarding the 761st Tank Battalion:

• The battalion was formed on April 1, 1942, and operated until June 1, 1946, primarily in Europe.
• Notable members included Lieutenant Jackie Robinson, who faced court-martial before combat for his act of civil disobedience.
• Despite challenges and discrimination, the battalion fought prominently under Lieutenant General George S. Patton.
• They engaged in combat for 183 days and played critical roles in significant battles, such as the Battle of the Bulge.
• They inflicted a substantial number of casualties on German forces while suffering high casualty rates themselves.
• Recognition for their service was limited following the war, with significant acknowledgment only coming decades later.

Award of the Congressional Gold Medal

The bill authorizes the presentation of a gold medal to the 761st Tank Battalion:

• The Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate will manage the arrangements for this presentation.
• The design and striking of the medal will be handled by the Secretary of the Treasury.

Display of the Gold Medal

Once awarded, the gold medal will be transferred to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Here, it will be available for public display and research. Congress expresses the view that the medal should be showcased in locations linked to the 761st Tank Battalion whenever feasible.

Duplicate Medals

The Secretary of the Treasury has the authority to manufacture and sell bronze duplicates of the gold medal to cover production costs.

Funding and Status

The medals created under the act are designated as national medals and will be considered numismatic items under U.S. law. Funding for the production will be managed from the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund, which will also receive proceeds from any sale of the duplicate bronze medals.

Relevant Companies

None found.