Donald Trump remarks on awarding himself the Medal of Honor

During a speech at the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, on September 10, Donald Trump remarked that he would like to award himself the Congressional Medal of Honor. Speaking before a crowd that included 15 of the 65 living recipients of the award, Trump stated, “I want for myself a Congressional Medal of Honor, and I've studied it... I will give it to myself. I have no problem, but I'm not allowed to.”

Trump addressed the potential for media criticism regarding his comments, suggesting that news outlets would report his remarks literally without acknowledging his use of sarcasm. He stated, “I’m only kidding. Actually, I’m not kidding. I would like to.”

Trump has not served in the military, having received a medical exemption from the Vietnam War due to bone spurs. He has previously made similar remarks regarding himself and his sons receiving the military decoration.