S. 1970: MACV–SOG Congressional Gold Medal Act

The MACV–SOG Congressional Gold Medal Act is legislation aimed at honoring the service members of the Military Assistance Command Vietnam–Studies and Observations Group (MACV–SOG). Here is a summary of its main components:

Purpose of the Bill

The bill seeks to acknowledge the bravery and outstanding service of MACV–SOG personnel who served in South Vietnam, North Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia during the Vietnam War by awarding them a Congressional Gold Medal.

Key Findings About MACV–SOG

• MACV–SOG was established in January 1964 as a specialized military task force to conduct high-risk operations in Vietnam and neighboring countries.
• The unit executed various missions, including reconnaissance, sabotage, rescue operations, and psychological warfare, often in hostile environments.
• Throughout its history, MACV–SOG has been recognized as one of the most elite and distinguished special operations units, with 12 operators awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.
• Between 1964 and 1972, many MACV–SOG members were either killed or listed as missing in action, representing a significant portion of U.S. military losses during the Vietnam War.
• The tactics developed by MACV–SOG have influenced modern special operations and military strategies.
• Covert operations conducted by MACV–SOG were largely unrecognized at the time, leaving families of personnel affected unaware of their sacrifices.
• The unit cooperated with various military branches and utilized local forces in their missions.

Gold Medal Presentation

• The Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate will arrange for the presentation of a single gold medal to MACV–SOG members to honor their service.
• The Secretary of the Treasury will design and produce the medal, incorporating significant emblems and text.
• After the ceremony, the medal will be assigned to the Smithsonian Institution for display and research, with the aim of making it available for broader public viewing.

Duplicate Medals

The Secretary may also produce and sell duplicate bronze medals to cover the costs associated with the fabrication of the original gold medal.

Status of Medals

• The gold medal and any duplicates are classified as national medals.
• These items will be recognized as numismatic items under relevant U.S. laws.

Funding for the Bill

• The U.S. Mint Public Enterprise Fund will be utilized to cover the costs of the medals.
• Revenue from the sale of duplicate medals will also contribute to this fund.

Relevant Companies

None found