In a recent campaign event in New Jersey, former President Donald Trump's remarks about the Medal of Honor have drawn sharp criticism from the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) commander, Al Lipphardt. Trump's comments, labeling the Presidential Medal of Freedom as a "better" award than the esteemed Medal of Honor, have sparked outrage among veterans and military supporters.

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States Armed Forces to recognize exceptional acts of courage and gallantry in the face of extreme danger. Conversely, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is bestowed upon civilians who have made outstanding contributions to America's security, national interests, world peace, or significant public endeavors.

During the campaign event, Trump likened the Presidential Medal of Freedom to the Medal of Honor, stating that the former was "actually much better" as everyone who receives the Congressional Medal of Honor, in his words, "they're soldiers." These remarks drew immediate backlash from veterans and military advocates who view such comparisons as disrespectful to the sacrifices made by Medal of Honor recipients.

The VFW condemned Trump's comments, with Lipphardt expressing his dismay in a statement posted on the group's website. Describing Trump's remarks as "asinine," Lipphardt emphasized that such comments not only diminish the significance of the nation's highest award for valor but also disregard the sacrifices and heroism of those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

Lipphardt highlighted the courageous stories of Medal of Honor recipients, including the late Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn Cashe, who posthumously received the honor in 2021 for his selflessness in saving fellow soldiers trapped in a burning vehicle in Iraq. He also mentioned Army Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Petry, who lost his hand while heroically disposing of an enemy grenade to protect his comrades in Afghanistan.

Expressing concern about the implications of Trump's remarks on his ability to serve as commander-in-chief, Lipphardt questioned whether Trump could discharge his responsibilities "with the seriousness and discernment necessary for such a powerful position." He also reminded Trump that the Medals of Honor awarded during his presidency were not his personal choices but were bestowed on behalf of Congress, representing a grateful nation.

Lipphardt further asserted that while the Presidential Medal of Freedom may be the nation's highest civilian award, the Medal of Honor is "more sacred" as it symbolizes the valor and intrepidity of service members who have often paid the ultimate price. He concluded by stating that it is because of these Medal of Honor recipients that individuals like Miriam Adelson, who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, have the freedom to contribute to the nation.

Various individuals joined in the criticism against Trump for his comments, including Sarafina Chitika, spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris's presidential campaign, who stated that Trump knows nothing about service to anyone but himself. Alexander Vindman, a former soldier who testified against Trump during his first impeachment trial, condemned the remarks on social media, describing Trump's viewpoint as dishonoring Medal of Honor recipients.

Medal of Honor recipient and retired Army Capt. Florent Groberg acknowledged the importance of recognizing civilian contributions through the Presidential Medal of Freedom but stressed that it cannot be compared to the significance and criteria of the Medal of Honor. Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Ramos also emphasized the distinction, stating that equating the two awards dishonors the memory of heroes like Alwyn Cashe.

As the criticism grew, Trump's running mate JD Vance defended him, asserting that Trump's admiration for the Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient Miriam Adelson does not diminish the respect for military honors. Vance insisted that Trump holds veterans in high regard.

Trump's comments on the Medal of Honor not only incited backlash but also reignited memories of his previous remarks about Senator John McCain's capture during the Vietnam War, which was widely criticized in 2015. The VFW's condemnation of Trump's latest remarks adds to the ongoing debate about his respect for military service and raises questions about his suitability for public office.

Newsweek has reached out to the Trump campaign for comment on the controversy.