The recent opening of the National Medal of Honor Museum marks a significant moment in the nation's history, bringing together stories of extraordinary courage and selflessness. Fort Worth is proud to be home to three men whose names are etched into the annals of this sacred institution — each of them embodying the highest ideals of valor. These three are the only recipients of the Medal of Honor from Fort Worth, and their bravery continues to inspire generations. Here, we honor their courage and reflect on their sacrifices.
Major Horace Carswell – World War II
A true hero of the skies, Major Horace Carswell's remarkable act of bravery during World War II left an indelible mark on history. While piloting a B-24 bomber over the South China Sea, Carswell's plane took severe damage from enemy fire, yet he managed to keep his crew safe as they parachuted to safety. In a selfless act, Carswell stayed at the controls of his plane to give one fellow airman a chance to survive. Tragically, both men died when the aircraft crashed on landing. A proud North Side High School graduate and TCU football player, Carswell's legacy endures. He is buried in Oakwood Cemetery in Fort Worth.
Corporal Charles Pendleton – Korean War
When his company was tasked with defending a vital hill during the Korean War, Corporal Charles Pendleton rose to the challenge. As enemy forces advanced, Pendleton took up an exposed position and, with incredible courage, fought back, killing multiple attackers. Despite being wounded, he continued to defend his comrades, even after grenades destroyed his machine gun. Ultimately, Pendleton's brave actions came at the cost of his life, but his selfless sacrifice remains a defining moment in Fort Worth's military history. Pendleton, a graduate of R.L. Paschal High School, is buried at Laurel Land Memorial Cemetery.
Specialist Robert Law – Vietnam War
Robert Law's sacrifice in the jungles of Vietnam is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his fellow soldiers. On a reconnaissance mission, Law's unit was ambushed, and despite being surrounded, he fought valiantly, leading a counterattack to hold off the enemy. When a live grenade landed near his comrades, Law threw himself on it, sacrificing his life to save his brothers in arms. At just 24 years old, Law's courage and sense of duty became a beacon of hope for those who fought beside him. He was a graduate of Tech High School and an active member of Southcliff Baptist Church. Law is buried at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fort Worth.
Medal of Honor Recipients By the Numbers:
3,545 Medals of Honor awarded (this accounts for less than .01% of Americans who have served in war since 1861)
3,526 Recipients
19 Double recipients
61 Living recipients
685 Fallen in service recipients (18.7%)
35 Related recipients
75 Texas recipients
764 Foreign-born recipients
1 Female recipient (Civil War surgeon Mary Walker)
13 Age of youngest recipient (Civil War Army drummer William Johnson)
62 Age of oldest recipient (World War II General Douglas MacArthur)
