This bill awards a Congressional Gold Medal posthumously to Master Sergeant Roddie Edmonds for his courageous actions during World War II, when he saved Jewish-American soldiers from Nazi persecution.
Tim Burchett
Representative
TN-2
The "Master Sergeant Roddie Edmonds Congressional Gold Medal Act" authorizes a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal for Master Sergeant Roddie Edmonds, honoring his courageous actions during World War II when he saved approximately 200 Jewish-American soldiers from Nazi persecution by defying direct orders to segregate them. This medal recognizes Edmonds' extraordinary heroism and will be presented to his son or next of kin. The Act also permits the creation and sale of bronze duplicates of the medal to commemorate his bravery.
Congressional Gold Medal for WWII Hero Roddie Edmonds: Defied Nazis to Save Jewish-American Soldiers
The "Master Sergeant Roddie Edmonds Congressional Gold Medal Act" officially recognizes the incredible bravery of Master Sergeant Roddie Edmonds, a WWII hero you probably haven't heard of – but should. This bill, in a nutshell, awards him a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal for his actions in a German POW camp.
Courage Under Fire
Back in WWII, Edmonds was the highest-ranking non-commissioned officer in a camp holding over 1,200 American soldiers. When the Nazis ordered all Jewish-American soldiers to be separated, Edmonds didn't just refuse – he ordered all his men to stand together. Facing down the German officer, he declared, "We are all Jews here." (SEC. 2) This single act of defiance saved roughly 200 Jewish-American lives from potential labor camps or worse. This bill finally recognizes that extraordinary courage.
Honoring a Hero, Remembering History
The core of the bill (SEC. 3) authorizes the creation of a Congressional Gold Medal, to be presented to Edmonds' son, Pastor Christopher Waring Edmonds. Think of this as the highest civilian honor Congress can give. The Secretary of the Treasury will design the medal, and they're also authorized to make bronze duplicates for sale to the public (SEC. 4). These medals aren't just souvenirs; they're officially designated as national medals and numismatic items (SEC. 5), meaning they hold historical and collectible value.
Why It Matters Now
This isn't just about a medal; it's about remembering a powerful example of moral courage. Edmonds' story is a stark reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and the importance of standing up to injustice, no matter the cost. It also shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions of Jewish-American soldiers during WWII. For families of those soldiers, and anyone who values human rights, this recognition is a big deal. It's a reminder that even in the darkest times, one person's bravery can make a world of difference. The bill offers an opportunity to educate younger generations. While the sale of duplicate medals could raise concerns about profiteering if not handled carefully, the primary intent is clearly to honor and remember.