Major Thomas D. Howie Congressional Gold Medal

This bill authorizes the posthumous award of a Congressional Gold Medal to Major Thomas D. Howie in recognition of his bravery and outstanding service during the Battle of Normandy in World War II. The legislation aims to honor Major Howie's leadership, sacrifice, and embodiment of Army values during a crucial campaign that contributed to the Allied liberation of France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. By awarding this prestigious medal, Congress seeks to memorialize Major Howie's heroic actions and inspire future generations with his example of courage and duty.

The bill authorizes the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the striking of a gold medal honoring Major Thomas D. Howie. The Secretary of the Treasury is directed to strike the gold medal with suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions. The medal is to be presented to Tom Howie, Major Howie's nephew, or if unavailable, to Major Howie's next of kin. The legislation also provides for the striking and sale of duplicate bronze medals. The gold medal will ultimately be given to The Citadel Museum for display and research purposes, ensuring public access to this tribute.

The Secretary of the Treasury is responsible for striking the gold medal and any duplicate bronze medals. The costs of striking the medals are to be charged against the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund. Proceeds from the sale of duplicate bronze medals will be deposited back into this fund. The Speaker of the House and President pro tempore of the Senate are tasked with arranging the award ceremony. No specific timeline for implementation is provided in the available bill text.

The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are the family of Major Thomas D. Howie, particularly his nephew Tom Howie, who will receive the Congressional Gold Medal. The Citadel Museum will also benefit by obtaining the medal for display and research purposes, potentially increasing visitor interest. The bill's impact extends to honoring the legacy of World War II veterans and educating the public about Major Howie's heroic actions. While specific cost estimates are not provided, the use of the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund and the sale of duplicate medals are intended to offset the expenses associated with producing the medal. No significant administrative burden is anticipated, as the processes for striking and awarding Congressional Gold Medals are well-established.

The bill operates within the established legal framework for Congressional Gold Medals. It designates the medals struck under this Act as national medals for purposes of Chapter 51 of Title 31, United States Code. Additionally, the medals are considered numismatic items under Sections 5134 and 5136 of Title 31, United States Code. This classification ensures proper legal status and handling of the medals within existing federal statutes governing coinage and numismatic programs.

No significant constitutional concerns or implementation challenges are apparent from the available bill text. The legislation follows established precedents for awarding Congressional Gold Medals. Cost implications appear to be addressed through the use of the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund and the sale of duplicate medals. One potential consideration is ensuring equitable recognition of other World War II heroes, as singling out individual service members for such high honors may raise questions about the criteria for selection. Additionally, the bill's focus on a single individual may face scrutiny in terms of its broader impact on honoring collective military service and sacrifice.