(The Hill) – President Trump issued several awards during his State of the Union address before Congress on Tuesday evening.
The honorees included two military pilots, an Olympic athlete, a Coast Guard petty officer and two National Guard members.
The president also noted his continued interest in receiving the Medal of Honor himself.
“I’ve always wanted the congressional Medal of Honor, but I was informed I’m not allowed to give it to myself,” Trump said, calling the award “a big thing.”
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Here are the night’s honorees:
Medals of Honor
Trump awarded two military pilots with the highest American military decoration, the Medal of Honor, during his address Tuesday evening.
Captain Royce Williams, a 100-year-old former Navy fighter pilot, was presented the medal by First Lady Melania Trump.
The president called Williams a “living legend” and commended his service in World War II and the Vietnam and Korean wars.
“Tonight, at 100 years old, this brave Navy captain is finally getting the recognition he deserves,” Trump said. “He was a legend long before this evening.”
The president also presented the Medal of Honor to Chief Warrant Officer Eric Slover, who led the recent military operation in Venezuela in which the U.S. captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
Trump noted that Slover is “still suffering from his wounds” from this operation and applauded his “actions above and beyond his duty.”
Presidential Medal of Freedom
Olympic Hockey Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is set to receive the highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the president announced during his Tuesday speech.
Hellebuyck recently helped the U.S. team clinch the gold medal in their face-off with Canada at the Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. The goalie secured 41 saves during the game.
Several athletes have previously received this prestigious award, including Katie Ledecky, Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan.
“I want to thank you,” Trump said to Hellebuyck and the rest of the men’s hockey team, who were present in the House chamber during his speech.
“What a special job you did,” he continued. “What special champions you are.”
Legion of Merit Medal
The Coast Guard swimmer who rescued 164 girls at Camp Mystic during the deadly Texas flood last year was awarded the Legion of Merit Medal.
The president announced that Scott Ruskan would receive this award, which recognizes exceptionally meritorious conduct and outstanding service.
“Congratulations Petty Officer Scott Ruskan on your Legion of Merit award recognizing your heroic service rescuing over 150 young girls during the Kerrville Floods!” Texas Rep. Chip Roy (R) posted on the social platform X.
Trump commended Ruskan for his “extraordinary heroism” during his first-ever rescue operation.
“You’re a brave man, and we salute you,” Trump said. “Even in times of challenge, setback and immense heartbreak, the spirit of 1776 has always shone through very brightly.”
Purple Heart Awards
The president honored the two National Guard members who were shot blocks from the White House last year with Purple Heart awards.
Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, who survived a gunshot wound to his head, smiled next to his mother as the award was pinned to his jacket.
“With God’s help, Andrew has battled back from the edge of death — and we’re talking about the edge of death — on his way to a miraculous recovery,” the president said, before thanking him for his service.
The parents of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, who died from a gunshot wound after the attack and was awarded the Purple Heart posthumously, accepted the award in their daughter’s honor.
“Sarah Beckstrom died in order to defend our capitol, and we are honored to be joined by her wonderful parents,” Trump said. “Gary and Evelea, your daughter was a true American patriot and she will be greatly missed.”
