New Jersey Assembly Bill AR37

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Urges Congress to extend time limitation for upgrading certain military honors.

Impact

The resolution seeks to change federal law pertaining to military honors, emphasizing the need for Congress to act by waiving or extending the five-year limit on awards. Given that this timeframe can impede the recognition of valor displayed long after the initial actions taken by the service members, this bill could set a precedent for more flexible timelines in recognizing military heroism. It aims to facilitate the appropriate recognition of actions that are later deemed deserving of higher honors but are overshadowed by bureaucratic constraints.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 37, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, urges Congress to extend the time limitations for upgrading military honors such as the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, or Distinguished Service Medal. Currently, these honors must be awarded within five years of the service member's qualifying actions. This resolution seeks to address the limitations that prevent the upgrades of honors posthumously awarded, as exemplified by the case of Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe, whose courageous actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom warrant consideration for the Medal of Honor, yet fall outside the current time frame due to the five-year rule.

Contention

While the resolution received bipartisan support, it highlights an ongoing tension between established military award protocols and the evolving understanding of valor in combat. The case of Sergeant Cashe demonstrates not only a personal narrative of heroism but also brings forth questions about whether time limitations should override substantial acts of bravery. Congress’s consideration of this resolution, especially with increased scrutiny of military honors, stands as a reflection of societal values towards service members and their sacrifices, making it a significant topic within military and legislative discourse.