MACV–SOG Congressional Gold Medal Act

# MACV-SOG Congressional Gold Medal Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would authorize Congress to award a Congressional Gold Medal to MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam–Special Operations Group), a highly classified special operations unit that conducted covert military missions during the Vietnam War. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors the U.S. can bestow, typically awarded to individuals or groups for distinguished achievements and contributions to American society or history. **Who It Affects:** The medal would honor the members of MACV-SOG, the soldiers and operatives who participated in this elite, secretive military unit.

These individuals conducted dangerous reconnaissance and direct action missions in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos during the 1960s and early 1970s. The award recognizes their service and sacrifice, many of whom faced extreme risks with limited public recognition due to the classified nature of their operations. **Current Status:** The bill (HR 5993) was introduced by Representative Mark Alford (R-MO) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. For the bill to pass, it would need to advance through the committee process and receive approval from both chambers of Congress.