World War II Army Rangers Receive Congressional Gold Medals in Washington

The United States Congress awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to the last surviving World War II Army Rangers in a ceremony held at the U.S. Capitol, honoring their extraordinary valor and critical roles in pivotal battles such as the Battle of the Bulge and the assault on Pointe du Hoc. Among the recipients were Sergeant Joseph Drake and Private First-Class John Wardell, two of only five surviving Rangers out of more than 6,500 who served during the war. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, along with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and other dignitaries, praised the Rangers for their courage, sacrifice, and lasting legacy, calling the recognition long overdue. The medal was accepted on behalf of all Rangers, living and deceased, and will be entrusted to the Smithsonian Institution for preservation. Senator Tammy Duckworth highlighted the Rangers' sacrifices as the price America paid to defend its freedoms, emphasizing the nation's deep gratitude. The ceremony celebrated these ordinary men who performed extraordinary acts of heroism, ensuring their legacy endures for future generations.