‘Am I allowed to give myself the Medal of Honor?’ – Trump asked his staff that question, and insiders say he’s still seriously considering it

President Donald Trump has been actively exploring ways to award himself the Medal of Honor, the country’s most prestigious military recognition. White House insiders say he has repeatedly considered this move, even though the award is meant for service members who show bravery and courage while risking their own lives. Trump first brought up the idea publicly during a speech in Georgia on February 19, 2026.

He talked about a trip he made to Iraq during his first term, where he claimed his plane landed on an unlit runway. During the speech, he said, “I flew to Iraq and was extremely brave. In fact, so brave I wanted to give myself the Congressional Medal of Honor.” He then added, “I said to my people: am I allowed to give myself the Congressional Medal of Honor?” While he admitted the move might be a stretch, he did not rule it out.

According to the Wall Street Journal, people who attended a White House reception held ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration this July said the president again brought up the award. These conversations are taking place while the United States is actively engaged in a military conflict with Iran. Since the war started, 13 American service members have been killed, and hundreds have been injured. 

Trump’s push for the honor raises eyebrows given his history of avoiding military service

The timing of these discussions stands out, especially given Trump’s history with military service. He received five draft deferments during the Vietnam War in the 1960s, with his final deferment in 1968 attributed to bone spurs. His former lawyer, Michael Cohen, testified to the House Oversight Committee in February 2019 that Trump had no medical records to support that claim. Cohen alleged that Trump told him, “You think I’m stupid, I wasn’t going to Vietnam.”

Reports from White House insiders also suggest that Trump’s attention has often shifted away from the ongoing war. During a recent rescue operation for a downed pilot, he reportedly caused such a disruption that his own aides removed him from the briefing room.

His handling of the Iran conflict has drawn growing criticism, and Trump’s meltdown over Italy PM Meloni’s Iran stance showed just how unprepared he was for key allies pushing back. When not focused on the war, he has reportedly turned his attention to other things, such as fundraisers for the upcoming midterms or his $400 million ballroom.

Trump has already accepted several other honors during his second term, including the “FIFA Peace Prize” and the title of “Undisputed Champion of Coal.” These moves come as his approval ratings have dropped to a low point. A poll published on April 19, 2026, showed that nearly two-thirds of Americans disapprove of his overall performance, with only 33 percent approving of how he has handled the war with Iran.

Trump has also been inconsistent on other key issues, and his two conflicting answers on gas prices before the midterms raised further questions about his credibility. As the ceasefire in the region is set to end on April 22, 2026, the administration continues to face serious challenges. Iranian officials have already rejected potential peace talks, adding more pressure on the White House to find a path forward in the conflict.

The Medal of Honor, which Trump has openly said he wants for himself, remains one of the most respected symbols of military sacrifice in the United States. Whether he will move forward with any formal attempt to award it to himself remains to be seen, but insiders say the idea has not gone away.