The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has criticized the Pentagon's decision to uphold medals awarded to US soldiers involved in the 1890 Wounded Knee Massacre. NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr. stated the decision "undermines truth-telling, reconciliation, and healing." Pentagon Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the decision, calling it "final" and arguing the soldiers "deserve those medals." This review followed an order by former Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who had ordered a review but left office before making a final decision. The 1990 Congress had previously expressed "deep regret" for the tragedy.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.