Celebrate National Medal of Honor Day with Recipient-Inspired Films

To honor this special commemoration, we’re sharing our list of top 10 movies based on real-life Medal of Honor recipients. But first, a little bit about the Medal of Honor award.

Netflix N’ Say Thanks: 10 Movies Based on Real-Life Medal of Honor Recipients

We pledge to honor and remember all of our brave veterans, especially our Medal of Honor recipients, by bearing witness to their incredible stories and acts of bravery. This National Medal of Honor Day, consider watching one of the following movies to learn more about some of our nation's bravest heroes:

1. Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

This 2016 is inspired by the story of WWII Army Medic Desmond Doss, the first man to receive a Medal of Honor award without ever even using his firearm.

2. Glory (1989)

This classic American Civil war film tells the story of the United States's first all-African-American regiment. In this film, featuring superstar actors like Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman, depicts the fearless actions of Army Sgt. William H Carney. Carney became the first African American and former slave to receive the Medal of Honor.

3. Gettysburg (1993)

The iconic American Civil War battle featured the brave actions of Medal of Honor recipient Col. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

4. Pearl Harbor (2001)

A day that will live in infamy, portrayed in a major blockbuster film from the early 2000's. Watch this movie to learn a bit about Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Col. James Doolittle, played by Alec Baldwin. This film also features the likes of Ben Affleck and Josh Hartnett.

5. In Love and War (1987)

This made-for-TV film starring James Woods tells the story of Vietnam POW and Medal of Honor recipient US Navy Commander Adm. James Stockdale.

6. MacArthur (1977)

General Douglas MacArthur, about whom this film was made, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his leadership and achievements in WWII and the Korean War.

7. The Longest Day (1962)

D-Day was a pivotal turning point in World War II. Included in this movie is the story of Medal of Honor recipient Brig. Gen. Theodore Roosevelt Jr.

8. Rough Riders (1997)

Learn about Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roosevelt in his courageous role during the Spanish-American War. He was first President of the United States to receive this award.

9. The Lost Battalion (2001)

Made for TV, this film chronicles the heroic WWI exploits of Medal of Honor recipient Maj. Charles White Whittlesey, played by Ricky Schroder.

10. Lone Survivor (2013)

This movie exploded in popularity and honors the Medal of Honor recipient, United States Navy SEAL Lt. Michael Murphy for sacrificing himself to for his team. Mark Wahlberg fans may especially like this one.

A Few Bonus Ways to Honor The Ones Who Serve

Looking for another way to honor a veteran in your life this Medal of Honor Day? Check out these creative ideas:

• Donate money, time, and/or resources to a reputable organization that supports our nation's servicemen and women.
• Fly an American flag outside your home.
• Ask your local VA group about how and where to send letters, post cards, or care packages to military men and women currently serving overseas (kids love to get involved with this).