# Plain Language Summary: Milton Holland Posthumous Commission Bill

This bill honors Milton Holland, a Black soldier who served during the Civil War, by giving him an official military rank he never received while alive. Holland was a sergeant major in the 5th Regiment of the United States Colored Infantry and earned the Medal of Honor—the military's highest award for bravery—for his exceptional courage in combat. The bill would posthumously commission him as a captain in the regular Army, which means his official military record would be updated to reflect this higher rank even though he has passed away.

The practical effect of this bill is largely symbolic and historical. It doesn't change anything about Holland's life or provide money to anyone, since Holland is deceased. Instead, it corrects what many see as a historical injustice. During the Civil War era, Black soldiers faced significant discrimination in the military, and many were denied promotions and recognition they deserved. By officially recognizing Holland as a captain, Congress is acknowledging his service and valor, and ensuring his military legacy reflects his true contributions and heroism.

This type of bill is relatively uncommon but not unprecedented. It's a way for Congress to right historical wrongs and ensure that important figures in American military history are properly honored and remembered with the rank and recognition they earned through their actions. For Holland's descendants and the broader community, it represents official recognition of his sacrifice and the sacrifices of other Black soldiers who fought for the country during a time when they faced discrimination both in uniform and at home.

To provide for the posthumous commission as a captain in the regular Army of Milton Holland, who, while sergeant major of the 5th Regiment, United States Colored Infantry, was awarded the Medal of Honor for gallantry during the Civil War.

Green, Al

 <p>This bill provides for the posthumous commission of Milton Holland, who served as a sergeant major of the 5th Regiment of the United States Colored Infantry, as a captain in the regular Army.</p>