Save our Allies Congressional Gold Medal Act
Summary
The "Save our Allies Congressional Gold Medal Act" aims to award a Congressional Gold Medal to Chad Robichaux, Sarah Verardo, Tim Kennedy, Kevin Rourke, Sean Gabler, Dave Johnson, and Dennis Price. This is in recognition of their efforts during the Afghanistan evacuation in 2021. Their actions led to the safe evacuation of over 17,000 people from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
The bill authorizes the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange the presentation of the medal. The Secretary of the Treasury will design and strike the gold medals. The medals will then be given to the Smithsonian Institution for display and research.
The Act also allows for the striking and sale of duplicate bronze medals to cover costs. It designates the medals as national and numismatic items under relevant sections of the United States Code.
Expected Effects
This act will formally recognize and honor the individuals involved in the Afghanistan evacuation. It will preserve their legacy through display at the Smithsonian Institution. It may also foster a sense of national pride and gratitude for their service.
It will not have a direct impact on the economy or daily lives of most Americans. The cost of the medal will be covered by the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
Potential Benefits
- Recognition of Heroism: Formally acknowledges the bravery and dedication of individuals who risked their lives to save others.
- Preservation of History: Ensures that their story is preserved for future generations through display at the Smithsonian Institution.
- Symbolic Value: Reinforces the importance of loyalty, courage, and humanitarian efforts.
- Potential Inspiration: May inspire others to act selflessly in times of crisis.
- National Unity: Can foster a sense of national pride and unity by celebrating American values.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limited Direct Impact: Does not address broader issues related to the Afghanistan withdrawal or ongoing geopolitical concerns.
- Cost to Taxpayers: Although covered by the Mint's fund, there is an indirect cost to taxpayers for the creation and maintenance of the medal.
- Potential for Politicization: The selection of individuals for recognition could be subject to political debate or scrutiny.
- Exclusion of Others: May inadvertently overlook the contributions of other individuals or groups involved in the evacuation efforts.
- No tangible benefits: Does not provide any direct economic or social benefits to the American people beyond symbolic recognition.
Constitutional Alignment
The act appears to align with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the Preamble's goal to "promote the general Welfare" by recognizing and honoring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and dedication. Congress's power to legislate such recognition is derived from Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to "provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States."
There are no apparent conflicts with individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights. The act does not infringe upon freedom of speech, religion, or any other constitutional right.
However, the act's focus on specific individuals could raise questions about equal protection under the law if similar acts of heroism are not consistently recognized. This is a minor concern, as Congress has broad discretion in determining how to honor individuals for their service.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).