Award for Duty, Honor, Country

The MacArthur Society Award for Duty, Honor, Country (“the Award”) recognizes a current or former military member who has exemplified the enduring ideals of Duty, Honor, and Country through consistent leadership, integrity, and service.

The Award reflects the legacy of General Douglas MacArthur and the Society’s mission to uphold and promote West Point’s core values among the broader community.

This award may be presented annually, either in person at a local Founders Day event or virtually via an online ceremony. This does not preclude a presentation at a special time or place.

2. Purpose

The Award serves to:

- Recognize a current or former military member and those who have honorably served in our Military; whose actions and conduct embody the highest traditions of the legacy.
- Encourage continued adherence to the ideals of Duty, Honor, and Country across all stages of life and service.
- Reinforce positive examples of moral courage and professional excellence within the Long Gray Line and American Public.

3. Eligibility

- The nominee must have honorably served in our Military.
- Eligible individuals may be on active duty, in the reserves, retired, or in civilian life.
- Current members of the MacArthur Society Board of Directors or the Award Selection Committee are not eligible during their term of service.

4. Award Criteria

Nominees must:

1. Demonstrate a significant positive contribution that reflects one or more of the ideals of Duty, Honor, or Country; and
2. Exhibit no negative conduct or record contradicting any of those ideals.

Definitions of the evaluation traits:

- Duty: Exemplary service, professional excellence, or civic leadership reflecting responsibility and commitment.
- Honor: Unquestioned integrity, ethical consistency, and moral courage in decision-making.
- Country: Demonstrated patriotism, public service, or meaningful contributions to the Nation’s welfare.

The Award will consider achievements or conduct that occurred primarily during the preceding calendar year; however, lifetime context will be considered.

5. Nomination Process

Nominations may be submitted by:

- Any West Point graduate
- Any member of the MacArthur Society
- Any recognized West Point Society

Each nomination must include:

1. A completed Nomination Form (https://macarthursociety.org/award-form/)
2. A one-page summary describing how the nominee exemplifies Duty, Honor, and Country
3. At least one supporting document (required) — such as letters, citations, or media articles
4. Optional links to online documentation or press coverage

Online Form: https://macarthursociety.org/award-form/

6. Review and Selection Process

A. Selection Committee Composition

- - 3–5 members appointed annually by the MacArthur Society Board
  - At least one non-Board member to ensure objectivity
  - May include a previous award recipient if available

B. Process

1. Eligibility Screening: Verification of graduate and/or military service status and submission completeness
2. Evaluation: Structured scoring and discussion based on the award criteria
3. Recommendation: Committee submits one finalist and one alternate with written justification
4. Board Decision: Final approval by majority vote of the MacArthur Society Board

7. Vetting Requirements

Prior to Board approval, nominees shall undergo:

- Graduate verification via WPAOG or official alumni records; for military service, a DD 214(copy) or award citation.
- Public record and media review for evidence of conduct inconsistent with Duty, Honor, or Country
- Optional peer references from fellow graduates or superiors confirming the nominee’s character

Any credible evidence of misconduct, dishonor, or disloyalty to ideals associated with Duty, Honor, Country will disqualify the nominee.

8. Award Presentation

- Preferred Venue: Founders Day event hosted by a local West Point Society near the recipient’s residence.
- Alternative: Virtual ceremony via Zoom with multi-speaker participation.
- Presenter: Chair of the MacArthur Society Board or an appointed representative.

Program Structure (suggested):

1. 1. Opening remarks on the meaning of Duty, Honor, Country
  2. Reading of the award citation
  3. Recipient’s acceptance remarks (live or virtual)
  4. Closing message by the MacArthur Society

Award Components:

- - Custom-engraved plaque or medallion bearing “Duty, Honor, Country” and the MacArthur Society crest
  - Certificate of Recognition signed by the Chair and Board
  - Monetary honorarium determined annually by the Board (optional)
  - Feature article in Society publications and the MacArthur Society Roll of Honor

9. Monetary Award (Optional)

In addition to the physical award, the recipient shall receive a monetary sum in recognition of their exemplary service, at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

The amount shall be established annually by the MacArthur Society Board of Directors, based on available funds and budget approval.

10. Frequency and Administration

- Normally one award per year; exceptions require Board approval.
- Administered by the MacArthur Society Secretary or Awards Coordinator.

11. Governance and Amendments

- The MacArthur Society Board retains authority to interpret, amend, or suspend the Award Program.
- Selection Committee deliberations are confidential.
- Program procedures are subject to periodic review by Society legal advisors for compliance with nonprofit and privacy standards.

12. Publicity and Archives

All award recipients will be:

- Listed permanently on the MacArthur Society Roll of Honor
- Announced through the Society’s website, newsletters, and social media channels
- Featured in press releases distributed to local societies and alumni publications
- Documented in the Society’s historical archive

13. Contact Information

For questions or assistance regarding the nomination process, contact:
Awards Committee, MacArthur Society of West Point Graduates
Email: mission@macarthursociety.org
Website: www.macarthursociety.org