Welles Remy Crowther Congressional Gold Medal Act

Summary of HR 5519: Welles Remy Crowther Congressional Gold Medal Act

Purpose and Intent

The Welles Remy Crowther Congressional Gold Medal Act (HR 5519) aims to honor the legacy of Welles Remy Crowther, a hero of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Crowther, known for his bravery and selflessness, is credited with saving numerous lives during the attacks on the World Trade Center. This legislation seeks to recognize his extraordinary actions by awarding him a Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States.

Key Provisions

• Award of Congressional Gold Medal: The bill proposes the issuance of a Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of Welles Remy Crowther's heroism during the 9/11 attacks.
• Design and Specifications: The design of the medal will be determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, ensuring it reflects Crowther's contributions and legacy.
• Funding: The bill outlines provisions for the costs associated with the production of the medal, which will be covered by the sale of duplicate medals, thereby minimizing the financial impact on taxpayers.

Affected Parties

• Family and Legacy: The bill directly honors the family of Welles Remy Crowther and serves as a tribute to his memory and the values of courage and sacrifice he embodied.
• Public Awareness: By recognizing Crowther's actions, the bill aims to raise awareness about the heroism displayed during the 9/11 attacks, inspiring future generations to act with bravery in times of crisis.

Legislative Process and Timeline

• Introduced: The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 19, 2025.
• Committee Referral: Following its introduction, HR 5519 was referred to the House Committee on Financial Services for further consideration on the same day.

Sponsors

The bill is sponsored by a bipartisan group of legislators, including:
- Primary Sponsor: Michael Lawler
- Cosponsors: Adriano Espaillat, Patrick Ryan, Claudia Tenney, Nick LaLota, Thomas R. Suozzi, Daniel S. Goldman, Timothy M. Kennedy, George Latimer, Barry Moore, Jerrold Nadler, and Elise M. Stefanik.

Conclusion

The Welles Remy Crowther Congressional Gold Medal Act (HR 5519) represents a significant effort to honor a true American hero. By recognizing Crowther's bravery, the bill not only pays tribute to his memory but also serves to inspire future acts of courage and selflessness in the face of adversity. The legislative process is underway, with the bill currently under review by the House Committee on Financial Services.