Eddie Rickenbacker (WWI)

America’s top fighter ace in World War I, Rickenbacker earned his Medal for fearless aerial combat. After the war, he became a successful airline executive but drew criticism for harsh anti-union stances and accusations of exploiting workers during labor disputes.
He was also accused of opposing key New Deal reforms and cutting corners on safety at Eastern Air Lines. Though admired as a pioneer, his labor policies overshadowed his early heroism in the eyes of many.

Alvin York (WWI)

York was celebrated as a reluctant warrior who became a national hero after capturing over 130 enemy soldiers. Despite his fame, he struggled financially later in life and faced criticism for allowing his name to be used in political and military propaganda that contradicted his pacifist roots.
His stance on various social issues became more conservative over time, which clashed with the humble, peace-loving image many associated with him. Some questioned whether the media exaggerated his wartime deeds.

Douglas MacArthur (WWI/WWII/Korea)

MacArthur was awarded the Medal for defending the Philippines, but his later career was rife with controversy. He was famously relieved of duty during the Korean War for defying presidential orders, sparking debates about military authority versus civilian control.
He often clashed with other military leaders and had a reputation for arrogance. His public comments and grandstanding during wartime drew both praise and heavy criticism from politicians and historians alike.

Charles Liteky (Vietnam War)

As an Army chaplain, Liteky carried 20 wounded soldiers to safety under intense fire, earning the Medal of Honor. Years later, he renounced and returned the medal in protest of U.S. military actions in Central America, becoming a vocal peace activist and controversial figure.
He changed his name to Charles James and dedicated his life to social justice, often protesting alongside pacifist organizations. His actions angered many veterans’ groups but inspired others in the peace movement.

James E. Swett (WWII)

Swett destroyed seven enemy aircraft in one mission, an extraordinary feat for which he was awarded the Medal. Later in life, he became embroiled in a federal investigation regarding veterans’ benefits, tainting his otherwise distinguished reputation.
Though not formally charged, the scrutiny cast a long shadow over his legacy. Swett maintained his innocence but largely withdrew from public life during his later years.

William Calley (Vietnam War)

Though not an official Medal of Honor recipient, Calley was once reportedly considered for decoration before the truth of the My Lai Massacre emerged. His conviction for war crimes stained the Army’s image and raised concerns over how heroism and atrocity can be dangerously conflated.
Calley was sentenced to life in prison but served just three and a half years under house arrest. His light punishment and eventual public appearances led to protests and outrage from human rights groups.

David H. McNerney (Vietnam War)

McNerney’s leadership under fire saved his company from annihilation, earning him the nation’s highest military honor. Later, his name was connected to questionable financial practices within veterans’ organizations, though no charges were filed against him.
Despite the controversies, many of his comrades continued to regard him as a role model. He remained active in veterans’ events, though the financial concerns somewhat tainted his reputation.

Joe Ronnie Hooper (Vietnam War)

Hooper was one of the most decorated soldiers of the Vietnam War, with over 115 confirmed enemy kills. Yet after leaving the military, he battled alcoholism and struggled with civilian life, ultimately dying young and largely forgotten by the country he served.
Friends said he felt disconnected from society and unappreciated by the government he fought for. His tragic decline highlighted the mental health challenges many veterans face after intense combat.

Jack H. Jacobs (Vietnam War)

Jacobs saved lives under enemy fire and became a respected military analyst and business leader. However, his transition into finance and media raised concerns that he was profiting from his Medal of Honor fame, drawing criticism over the commercialization of military valor.
He often appeared on television, sharing war stories and offering political commentary. While admired by many, some veterans viewed his visibility as self-promotional rather than service-driven.

Paul R. Smith (Iraq War)

Smith was awarded the Medal posthumously for defending his unit in Iraq at the cost of his own life. While his bravery was undeniable, the political use of his story to promote support for the Iraq War stirred controversy and debate about the ethics of wartime symbolism.
His family became public figures, attending political events and interviews. While meant to honor his sacrifice, some critics felt his legacy was being leveraged to bolster unpopular war policies.

John A. Bennett (Korean War)

Bennett was initially recognized for bravery during the Korean War, but later events dramatically overshadowed that honor. He was executed by the military for the rape and attempted murder of a child, a grim reminder that valor on the battlefield does not excuse personal crimes.
His case remains one of the few instances of military execution in the modern era. The Army rescinded all honors connected to him, and he became a stark example of how not all wartime acts reflect true character.