You could sense the anticipation and the excitement in the room. It was a day that was long, long overdue, but finally, more than 70 years after the end of World War II, Filipino veterans were recognized for their bravery on the battlefield. 

In a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol, Congress awarded the Filipino veterans of WWII with the Congressional Gold Medal, and leaders from both parties thanked them for their service and sacrifice. As Speaker Ryan told the 650-person audience in Emancipation Hall, "let this ceremony serve to ensure that those who fought for freedom are never forgotten, and always remembered."

Note: The Congressional Gold Medal dates all the way back to George Washington and is the highest honor that Congress can bestow to express the appreciation of the American people. To learn more, visit here.