Why Haven't Marine Sgt Peralta's Navy Cross Been Upgraded to the Medal of Honor?
Marine Sergeant Rafael Peralta's exemplary service has been widely recognized through the Navy Cross, yet his heroic actions may not have warranted an upgrade to the prestigious Medal of Honor. This article delves into the factors that may have influenced this decision and discusses the political nature of awarding the Medal of Honor.
The Recognition and Context of Navy Cross
Military awards are integral to recognizing the bravery and dedication of service members, and the Navy Cross stands as a significant honor. Given to members of the United States Armed Forces for heroism in combat, the Navy Cross surpasses the Congressional Medal of Honor in terms of the number of awards given but is often considered equivalent in terms of the deeds accomplished.
Marine Sergeant Rafael Peralta's bravery and sacrifice on February 19, 1975, during the Battle of Khe Sanh are well-documented. His actions were undoubtedly heroic, saving the lives of his fellow soldiers under extreme fire. The Navy Cross has been awarded for such valiant and life-saving acts.
The Decision Behind the Medal of Honor Upgrade
Despite the recognizing and commending nature of the Navy Cross, there are situations where additional accolades, such as upgrading to the Medal of Honor, are deemed necessary. The specific criteria and evaluation processes for such upgrades often involve a detailed examination of the event in question and the broader context of the soldier's actions.
The board that evaluated Sgt. Peralta's case determined that while his heroic actions were outstanding, they did not elevate to the level required for the Medal of Honor. This decision may have been influenced by the political and bureaucratic processes inherent in awarding such a highly prestigious and impactful award.
Understanding the Political Nature of Awarding Honors
Awarding the Medal of Honor has long been a deeply political process. Since its establishment in the Civil War, the criteria for the Medal of Honor have evolved, often with a focus on the relationships and political connections of the recipients or applicants. The nomination and evaluation processes are influenced by a variety of factors, including the level of support from key figures within the military and political establishment.
As historical evidence suggests, the criteria for the Medal of Honor are sometimes reinterpreted or ignored, depending on who is in position to influence the outcome. The political nature of these decisions can sometimes cloud the merit of the actual heroic actions, leading to discrepancies in the honoring of brave service members.
The Perception and Reality of Sgt. Peralta's Treatment
The public and media portrayal of Marine Sergeant Rafael Peralta's treatment have reflected the complexity of these issues. Despite the Navy Cross being a significant and well-respected award, some seem to question the veteran's status or dismiss his deeds. This reaction is, in part, due to a misunderstanding of the intricacies involved in the awarding process.
Marine Sergeant Peralta's situation highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of military awards and the political processes involved. His heroism is not diminished by the decision not to upgrade to the Medal of Honor. The Navy Cross holds a considerable level of prestige and is a testament to the extraordinary valor displayed in the line of duty.
It is crucial to recognize the merit of all who serve and sacrifice, regardless of the level of the award they receive. Heroes such as Marine Sergeant Peralta have earned the respect and admiration of their peers and the public, and their contributions should be celebrated with appropriate honor and recognition.