H.R. 9595: Sergeant First Class Jorge Otero Barreto Medal of Honor Act

This bill would authorize the President to posthumously award the Medal of Honor to Sergeant First Class Jorge Otero Barreto for his actions as an Army soldier during the Vietnam War. In practical terms, it would allow this award to be made even though the usual time limits for recommending or approving certain military medals have already passed.

What the bill says

• It gives the bill a short title: the “Sergeant First Class Jorge Otero Barreto Medal of Honor Act.”
• It includes congressional findings describing Sergeant First Class Otero Barreto’s military service and acts of bravery.
• It states that, despite any statutory deadlines, the President is authorized to award him the Medal of Honor after his death.

What changes if it becomes law

The bill does not create a new program or spending initiative. It would only change the legal authority needed to allow a specific posthumous award. If enacted, it would permit the Medal of Honor to be presented in recognition of his Vietnam War service, even though he died in 2024 and the normal timing rules would otherwise apply.

Relevant Companies

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