First Rhode Island Regiment Congressional Gold Medal Act

Bill 117 HR 6660, also known as the First Rhode Island Regiment Congressional Gold Medal Act, is a piece of legislation that aims to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the First Rhode Island Regiment. This regiment was a groundbreaking military unit during the American Revolutionary War, as it was one of the first to include African American soldiers.

The bill recognizes the significant contributions of the First Rhode Island Regiment to the fight for American independence and honors the bravery and sacrifice of its members. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors that can be awarded by the United States Congress, and it is typically reserved for individuals or groups who have made exceptional contributions to American society.

If passed, this bill would authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to strike and present a gold medal to the First Rhode Island Regiment or their descendants. The medal would be displayed at the Smithsonian Institution for public viewing. Overall, the First Rhode Island Regiment Congressional Gold Medal Act seeks to acknowledge and celebrate the important role that the First Rhode Island Regiment played in the American Revolutionary War and to ensure that their contributions are remembered and honored for generations to come.