So anon was wondering why the President did not do the actual presentation of the Congressional Medal of Honor at the SOTU this week. I assumed only the President is authorized to present this award.
Using Google AI I asked "who is allowed to actually present the cmh"
Response: The President of the United States, acting on behalf of Congress, is authorized to present the Medal of Honor (CMH)
. According to the July 1918 Act of Congress, the President is the official presenter for this highest military decoration, which is presented during formal, public ceremonies to honor extreme valor.
Key Details Regarding Presentation:
Official Presenter: The President of the United States (or a designated representative acting on their behalf).
Authority: The award is given in the name of Congress.
Ceremony: Presentations are always public and conducted with "formal and impressive" ceremony, adhering to a 1905 Executive Order by Theodore Roosevelt.
Recipients: It is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces.