Hispanics in the American Civil War difference between them was that one served as a spy while the other disguised herself as a male and fought in various battles. The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. It is bestowed by the President in the name of Congress on members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguish themselves through "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States.". The 39th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment, also
Hasta pura (military decoration) to a soldier who had struck down an enemy in a sally or skirmish. Tacitus records a "hasta pura" being given as a decoration, bestowed upon a soldier for saving the life of a fellow-citizen: A civil servant called Tiberius Claudius Balbilus was awarded the "hasta pura" and perhaps also the "corona aurea" by Claudius during the triumph to celebrate the conquest of Britain in AD 44. As a friend and part of the Emperor’s retinue, it seems likely that his awards, as much as his military rank, were honorary. The "hasta pura" was also recorded as being given to