Golden Thirteen Congressional Gold Medal Act

# Golden Thirteen Congressional Gold Medal Act (HR 7317) **What the Bill Does:** This bill would award Congressional Gold Medals to the "Golden Thirteen," a group of 13 African American naval officers who became the first Black men to be commissioned as officers in the U.S. Navy during World War II. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors the U.S. Congress can bestow, recognizing individuals or groups for outstanding contributions to the nation. **Who It Affects:** The bill honors these 13 pioneering officers (or their heirs/estates, as some have passed away) for breaking racial barriers in the military during an era of segregation.

It also serves as a form of historical recognition for all Americans interested in civil rights history and military achievement. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, a Democrat from Washington, D.C. The bill has not advanced beyond the committee stage at this time.