abstract:The Congressional Space Medal of Honor was authorized by the United States Congress in 1969 to recognize "any astronaut who in the performance of his duties has distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious efforts and contributions to the welfare of the Nation and mankind." The highest award given by NASA, it is awarded by the President of the United States in Congress's name on recommendations from the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
He never sought the celebrity he would win, or the honors a grateful nation bestowed upon him: the Presidential Medalof Freedom, the CongressionalSpaceMedalofHonor, or the Congressional Gold Medal to name but a few.