H.R. 4521: Save our Allies Congressional Gold Medal Act

The "Save our Allies Congressional Gold Medal Act" aims to honor specific individuals who played critical roles during the Afghanistan evacuation in 2021. The bill proposes to award a Congressional Gold Medal to Chad Robichaux, Sarah Verardo, Tim Kennedy, Kevin Rourke, Sean Gabler, Dave Johnson, and Dennis Price. These individuals are recognized for their significant efforts and dedication that contributed to the safe evacuation of over 17,000 people from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

Key Components of the Bill

• Recognition of Efforts: The bill highlights the actions of the seven individuals who, motivated by their commitment to humanitarian principles, undertook dangerous missions to assist those in need during the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan.
• The Evacuation Operation: It details how Chad Robichaux and his team, all experienced Special Operations veterans, assembled quickly to conduct rescue operations at Hamid Karzai International Airport and beyond, facing significant risks as they worked to save lives.
• Post-Evacuation Efforts: After the initial evacuation, the team continued their humanitarian work remotely, utilizing alternative routes to rescue an additional 5,000 individuals, exemplifying their unwavering commitment to their mission.
• Commemoration: The Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate will coordinate to present a single gold medal on behalf of Congress to the honorees.
• Display of the Medal: After the award ceremony, the medal will be given to the Smithsonian Institution for display and research. It is suggested that the medal be available for presentation at other significant locations associated with the honorees' service.
• Duplicate Medals: The Secretary of the Treasury may create bronze duplicates of the gold medal, which can be sold to help cover production costs.
• Funding: The bill authorizes the use of amounts from the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund to cover costs associated with the medals.

Financial and Legal Status

• The medals awarded under this bill are classified as national medals under existing legal statutes.
• These medals will also qualify as numismatic items, meaning they can have additional collectible value.

Summary of Findings

• The bill acknowledges the critical turning point marked by events in August 2021, as the United States completed its military withdrawal from Afghanistan after two decades.
• It recognizes the sacrifices made by military personnel over the years and emphasizes the principles of democracy and freedom upheld during their service.
• The actions of the honorees are presented as a testament to the loyalty and dedication of the U.S. Armed Forces, reinforcing the nation's image as a source of hope and support on the global stage.

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