In an interview with CNN's Jake Tapper, retired General John Kelly, former White House chief of staff under President Trump, categorically dismissed Trump's recent assertion that the Presidential Medal of Freedom held greater significance than the Medal of Honor. Kelly emphasized that there is "no equivalency of any kind" between the two prestigious honors.

Contrasting the civilian award with the military honor, Kelly explained that the Presidential Medal of Freedom is bestowed for good deeds done and occasionally for other considerations, but it cannot be compared to the Medal of Honor in any way. The latter, he said, is earned through acts of incredible bravery on the battlefield, often by young men who courageously joined the military to defend their country when others did not.

Drawing attention to historic battles such as Normandy, Iwo Jima, Vietnam, and Fallujah, Kelly highlighted that the Medal of Honor is earned, not won, by individuals who surpass extraordinary challenges amid gunfire and danger. He stressed that service members pledge an oath to protect the Constitution, fully aware of the potential sacrifices, including serious injury, capture, or even death.

Kelly firmly stated, "No president, member of Congress, judge, or political appointee - and certainly no recipient of the Presidential Medal - will ever be asked to give life or limb to protect the Constitution." Consequently, he vehemently emphasized that the two awards are "not even close" and cannot be compared.

Trump's recent comments comparing the Presidential Medal of Freedom to the Medal of Honor have faced considerable backlash. During an event attended by GOP mega-donor Miriam Adelson, Trump praised her 2018 award, calling it the highest honor a civilian can receive and suggesting it was "much better" than the Medal of Honor because recipients of the latter are either severely wounded or deceased. The crowd responded with applause to his remarks.

Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley defended Trump in a subsequent interview, highlighting the President's unwavering support for the military, veterans, and their families. However, General Kelly's rebuttal underscores the distinctions between the two honors and the sacred oath of military service that sets them apart.

As the debate continues, it remains evident that the Medal of Honor signifies courageous acts on the battlefield, while the Presidential Medal of Freedom recognizes achievements and contributions in various civilian spheres. General Kelly's perspective adds weight to the understanding that the sacrifices made by those who earn the Medal of Honor are unparalleled and serve as a testament to their unwavering dedication to defending their country.