US Army Bestows First Julia Compton Moore Award for Spouse Appreciation

Spouses are often the unsung heroes in military life. But a new U.S Army award, known as the Julia Compton Moore Lifetime Achievement Award, hopes to highlight the work and support military spouses provide to soldiers.

“I think it’s amazing. Its just a great way to really recognize army spouses at such a high level," said Amy Mingus, in an interview with Military.com. She's the first recipient of the military honor. "It’s a much-needed award,” she said.

The award's namesake is Julia Moore, wife of Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, who graduated from West Point in 1945, and was a veteran of both the Korean War and the Vietnam War. His book, "We Were Soldiers Once...and Young," was adapted into a 2002 Hollywood film with actor Mel Gibson.

Lieutenant Moore's wife, Julia, was instrumental in bringing major changes to Army policy. When families received news of battlefield losses during the Vietnam War, she comforted them and would later urge the Army to use a more caring notification process, which to this day involves a uniformed officer and chaplain delivering tragic news of the loss of a service member in person.

She also helped create Army Community Service, which supports Soldiers and families on every Army post. As a spouse, she led youth groups, volunteered with the Red Cross in Army hospitals, and worked with spouse clubs to better support enlisted families.

“Julia Moore has always been my hero. She’s someone I think a lot of Army spouses look up to," said Mingus. "Her work in the casualty notification process has been lifechanging. Before her the lack of personal notification was just not okay.”

Army officials say Mingus was honored for her longtime advocacy for Army soldiers and families, including her support of the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors. The award was presented during the retirement ceremony of her husband, Gen. James J. Mingus, on Feb. 6, 2026. In a speech at the ceremony, Capt. Florent Groberg, Medal of Honor recipient, lauded her commitment to her husband's work and to the endeavors of military life.

"Your ability to sacrifice and suffer in private and stand up and show up and support and lead when you need to, is something that’s incredibly difficult to replicate, if not impossible," said Groberg at the service.

The award is reserved for spouses with at least 30 years of caring, unpaid dedication, and those whose leadership and commitment have left a lasting mark on the Army community. During the ceremony, Gen. Mingus spoke on the dedication of service he and his wife share and why serving is so important.

"I’m leaving the office, but I’m not leaving the Army; the Army gave me a lot more than I deserve. I wouldn’t trade a single day in uniform knowing that I was a part of something bigger than myself," said General Mingus at the ceremony. "Never forget the point of all this is the kid wearing the flag and the collective ability to fight and win."

The caption on the award for Mrs. Mingus reads:

"For distinguished service in support of the Soldiers and families of the United States Army. Mrs. Mingus' steadfast support and tireless efforts have significantly enhanced the lives of soldiers, spouses, and families across the United States Army. Her deep-seated commitment to service and willingness to give her time and talents are in keeping with the highest traditions of citizen support to the Armed Forces and reflect great credit upon herself, the Army community, and the United States of America."

The award is signed by Dan Driscoll, Secretary of the Army, and Gen. Randy A. George, Chief of Staff of the Army. For Mingus, it's the honor of a lifetime.

“I hope it reminds the Army and the nation that when we care for families, it strengthens the force because a steady family at home makes for a stronger, readier military," she said. "We (military spouses) serve quietly. "We don’t do it for accolades or attention, we do it because we love our soldier. Yes, my husband wore the uniform; he’s the soldier. But I always felt it was our calling.”

Award organizers say future nominees must have made a lasting impact in areas such as survivor care, advocacy for military-connected children, creation of quality-of-life programs, or strengthening family readiness. The award can also be given posthumously.