“13 heroes bravely gave all to protect Americans and our allies. It's fitting for Congress to recognize their sacrifice in a historical moment for our nation with the Congressional Gold Medal,” Daines said in a tweet.
Congressional Gold Medals are the highest award that the US Congress can bestow for distinguished achievements and contributions both in the military and civilian realms.
Although Daines – a Republican representing the US state of Montana – is currently the only sponsor of the bill, a spokesperson for his office told The Hill on Friday that he is looking for co-sponsors for the legislation on both sides of the aisle.
The bill will act as the Senate’s companion legislation to a bill introduced in the House of Representatives on Tuesday by over 150 congresspeople, which would similarly award posthumous Congressional Gold Medals to the 13 fallen military service members.