A Trailblazer in Uniform
As we observe Women’s History Month, the Friends of the Medal of Honor Grove are proud to shine a light on women who have made extraordinary contributions to our country—especially those awarded our nation’s highest military honor.
At the forefront is Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, a Civil War surgeon and the only woman ever to receive the Medal of Honor.
Courage in Action
Dr. Mary Edwards Walker was born in Oswego, New York on November 26, 1832. She was raised in a progressive household that valued education and equality, which greatly influenced her path as a pioneering physician, abolitionist, and women’s rights advocate.
Dr. Walker broke barriers at every turn. She pursued medicine at a time when few women did. When the Civil War broke out, she offered her services as a surgeon, working in battlefield hospitals and even venturing into combat zones. Captured and held as a prisoner of war, she returned undeterred, continuing her service with fierce resolve.
In 1865, she was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Andrew Johnson. Though the award was briefly rescinded decades later during a review of eligibility, Dr. Walker refused to return it—and wore it proudly until her death. Her medal was formally reinstated in 1977.
Remembering Her Legacy at the Grove
The Medal of Honor Grove is a place of remembrance and reflection, where each acre is dedicated to recipients from every U.S. state and territory. While the Grove currently honors recipients primarily by location, the spirit of trailblazers like Dr. Walker lives on in every tree planted and every plaque preserved.
As we continue our work to care for this sacred space, we also celebrate the diversity and courage of all who have earned the Medal of Honor—regardless of gender.
Join Us This Spring
Want to help preserve the stories and spaces that honor our nation’s heroes?
Join us for Spring Cleanup Day on Saturday, April 12th, 2025. From planting trees to washing plaques, every act of service helps keep these legacies alive.
RSVP Here to volunteer and be part of our mission.
Learn more about Dr. Mary Edwards Walker
To learn more about Mary Walker and other Medal Of Honor recipients, visit the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.