Trump quips of giving himself Congressional Medal of Honor after 2018 Iraq visit
The Hill
by Julia ManchesterFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump recently made waves during a speech in northwest Georgia, where he joked about wanting to give himself the Congressional Medal of Honor following his 2018 surprise visit to Iraq. Speaking to supporters while endorsing political candidates, Trump recounted his unexpected trip to the war-torn nation and humorously suggested that the honor was warranted. This quip highlights Trump’s tendency to boast about his actions in office, often framing them as unparalleled achievements.
The visit in question occurred during Trump’s first term, when he made a surprise stop at Al-Taqaddum Air Base near Baghdad. The move was controversial at the time, with critics arguing it put U.S. troops at unnecessary risk. However, Trump has consistently framed such decisions as displays of strong leadership. His recent remark about the Medal of Honor underscores his larger narrative of self-aggrandizement and reinforces his image as a president who takes bold, decisive action.
While the Medal of Honor is typically reserved for military service members, Trump’s comment reflects his broader pattern of redefining traditional norms during his presidency. This approach has been both polarizing and effective in shaping his public image. For readers interested in politics, this incident offers insight into Trump’s communication style and how he uses self-referential humor to connect with supporters while solidifying his reputation as a leader unafraid to break conventions.
The context of Trump’s speech also sheds light on his ongoing efforts to rally support for Republican candidates in Georgia, a key battleground state. By combining personal achievements with political endorsements, Trump is leveraging his platform to influence voter sentiment ahead of critical elections. This strategy not only boosts his favored candidates but also keeps him in the spotlight as a central figure in national politics.
Ultimately, Trump’s quip about the Medal of Honor serves multiple purposes: it reinforces his self-branded image of leadership, energizes his base, and underscores the unpredictable nature of his presidency. For those following political developments, this moment highlights how personal rhetoric can shape public perception and maintain a former president’s relevance in current events.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/19/2026