Howard Koslow (American, 1924 - 2016) "Distinguished Soldiers" Signed lower left. Acrylic on Illustration Board. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 33c Distinguished Soldiers Se-tenant Block of 4 stamps issued May 3, 2000. The first award of honor for the common soldier, rather than for high-ranking military elites, was given in the United States. In 1780, three "Andre" medals were awarded to militiamen John Paulding, Isaac van Wart and David Williams for capturing British intelligence officer Major John Andre who was carrying dispatches from General Benedict Arnold that betrayed the American cause. On July 12, 1862, Congress authorized the Medal of Honor -- the nation's highest military award -- to be presented to Army noncommissioned officers and privates who "distinguish themselves by their gallantry in action." Since the nation's founding, many American soldiers have distinguished themselves in the service of their country. Four of America's most notable heroes are Alvin C. York, John L. Hines, Audie L. Murphy and Omar N. Bradley. Alvin York was awarded the Medal of Honor for saving his patrol during the Meuse-Argonne offensive of World War I. Awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and the Silver Star, John Hines was the only American officer in World War I to command successively in battle a regiment, brigade, division and corps. The most decorated American soldier of World War II, Audie Murphy defended his unit in eastern France by single-handedly holding off six German tanks and over 200 enemy soldiers. During World War II, Omar Bradley was in charge of more than 1,300,000 men -- the largest American field command in U.S. history. In 1950, Bradley was promoted to the five-star rank of General of the Army. Image Size: 14 x 12 in. Overall Size: 20.75 x 18.25 in. Unframed. (B16693)