The Gold medal of the Congress is the highest civil distinction which can be granted by the Congrès of the United States. Decoration is granted to any individual who carries out an action or service for safety, prosperity, and national interest of the the United States. The prize winner does not need to be an American citizen. All the passengers of the Flight 93 for example, were nominated for the gold medal on September 19th, 2001.

The Gold medal of the Congress is considered the equivalent of the presidential Médaille of freedom and does not have to be confused with the medal of honor of the congress, which is a military distinction.

See too

• Member elects of the Gold medal of the Congress of the United States