Today is National Medal of Honor Day.

From the Civil War to the present, the Medal of Honor has been the highest decoration granted to our brave men and women in uniform.  mOverall, 3,536 people have received this honor, including 24 Floridians.

Ranking among these brave soldiers is Sergeant Ardie R. Copas of Fort Pierce, Florida.  When his convoy was ambushed during the Vietnam War, Sergeant Copas sacrificed himself fighting off the enemy, giving his wounded comrades sufficient time to evacuate to safety.

Due to his valor and sacrifice, Sergeant Copas was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 2014 — nearly four decades after his heroic final act.

Sergeant Copas’ sacrifice is just one example of the valor that has built this country.  Today, and every day, we recognize those brave Americans who selflessly put their lives on the line for our great country.

As your representative, I’m committed to ensuring their sacrifices will not be forgotten.