R.I. Gen. Laws § 30-31-1: Declaration of purpose.

The legislature hereby finds and declares:

(1) Numerous Rhode Island residents have distinguished themselves in the armed services of the United States by gallantry above and beyond the call of duty;

(2) That as a result of that gallantry, these residents have been awarded the medal of honor by the President of the United States;

(3) That the proper method of furthering that goal would be the establishment of a permanent committee.