Master Sergeant Roddie Edmonds Posthumously Receives the Medal of Honor

Washington, DC(March 2, 2026)-- Today, the family of Master Sergeant Roddie Edmonds, from Knoxville, TN, received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in World War II. Roddie was captured during the Battle of the Bulge and sent to a prisoner-of-war camp. Master Sergeant Edmonds was the highest-ranking soldier captured, and the Nazi's ordered him to identify the men who were Jewish. Realizing that anyone he identified would be killed, he ordered every soldier to come forward as Jewish, saving the Jewish soldiers' lives.

"Heroism should always be honored," said Congressman Burchett, "As the son of a WWII veteran and fellow East Tennessean, I am thankful to President Trump for recognizing the service and sacrifice of Master Sergeant Edmonds."

"For years, I have fought to award Roddie Edmonds with the Congressional Gold Medal. I also want to thank Senator Marsha Blackburn, who has stood with me in this fight in the United States Senate."

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For questions and media inquiries, please contact Will Garrett, Communications Director for Congressman Burchett