In 1917, the U.S. Army rescinded Walker's Medal of Honor under revised award criteria.
In 1917, as part of a broader review of Medal of Honor recipients, the U.S. Army rescinded the medal awarded to Mary Edwards Walker due to revised award criteria that posed stricter definitions of military service. Walker remained steadfast and refused to return it, asserting the validity of her service and its rightful recognition. Her defiance and tenacity symbolized her lifelong commitment to challenging unjust systems and ensuring female contributions were acknowledged and respected.