Congressional Space Medal of Honor Congressional Space Medal of Honor The Congressional Space Medal of Honor was authorized by the United States Congress in 1969 to recognize "any astronaut who in the performance of his duties has distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious efforts and contributions to the welfare of the Nation and mankind." The highest award given by NASA, it is awarded by the President of the United States in Congress's name on recommendations from the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The award is a separate decoration from the Medal of Honor, which is a military award for extreme bravery and gallantry
Walter S. Crosley Walter S. Crosley Walter Selwyn Crosley (30 October 1871 – 6 January 1939) was an officer in the United States Navy. He was a recipient of the Navy Cross, the second highest military decoration for valor. He subsequently advanced to the rank of rear admiral, to date from February 17, 1927, and was transferred to the Retired List in that rank on November 1, 1935. Walter Selwyn Crosley was born in East Jaffrey, New Hampshire, on October 30, 1871, the son of a Universalist Church pastor. He was appointed to the U. S. Naval Academy from the Fourth Congressional District