Décoration et médaille.


SILVER STAR
DISTINGUISHED
SERVICE
CROSS
MEDAL
SOLDIER MEDAL
PURPLE HEART
   
SILVER STAR


La Citation Star crée le 9 juillet 1918 devient une médaille le 8 août 1932.
Elle est remise aux membres de l'armée de terre qui ont servi avec bravoure au combat, face à
l' ennemi.

DISTINGUISHED
SERVICE CROSS

Crée le 9 juillet 1918, elle est décerné aux membres des forces armées qui se sont distingués par un acte d'héroïsme ne justifiant pas la Médal od Honnor

 

 

SOLDIER' S MEDAL


Instituée le 2 juillet 1926, elle récompense tout acte d'héroïsme sans contact
avec l' ennemi.

PURPLE HEART


Reintroduite en février 1932, c'est la forme moderne de la décoration établie par le général George Washington en 1782.
Elle est remise à tout personnel des forces armées bléssés au combat.
Elle est également décernée à titre posthume aux soldat tués au combat ou décédés suite à leurs blessures.

AMERICAN
DEFENCE
SERVICE MEDAL
ARMY
GOOD CONDUCT
MEDAL
AMERICAN
CAMPAIGN
MEDAL
EUROPEAN
AFRICAN
MIDDLE EASTERN
CAMPAIGN
MEDAL

 


AMERICAN DEFENCE SERVICE MEDAL


Crée le 28 juin 1941, elle est attribuée aux membres des forces armées en service entre le 8 septembre 1939 et le 7 décembre 1941 et ayant signé un engagement minimum de 12 mois pendant cette période.
Cette médaille indique que le soldat était sous les drapeaux avant la déclaration de guerre.
ARMY GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL


Crée le 28 juin 1941, cette médaille de bonne conduite est attribuée uniquement aux hommes de troupes.
Pour l' obtenir le soldat doit justifier d'un an d'état de service exemplaire pendant la guerre ou de 3 ans consécutifs de bons et loyaux services.

Un attribut symbolisant une corde nouée est placé sur le ruban, à chaque nouvelle attribution.
AMERICAN CAMPAIGN MEDAL


Instituée le 6 novembre 1942, elle est attribuée pour trente jours de services consécutif dans un théâtre
d'opérations entre le 7 décembre 1941 et le 2 mars 1946, ou pour une année de service aux USA.
EUROPEAN AFRICAN MIDDLE EASTERN CAMPAIGN MEDAL

Crée le 6 décembre 1942, elle est remise pour trente jours de service consécutif en Europe, en Afrique ou au Moyen Orient entre le 7 décembre 1941 et le 8 novembre 1945.
Une étoile de bronze est fixé au ruban pour chaque nouvelle campagne.
A partir de 1944, une pointe de flèche en bronze est placée sur la partie droite du ruban, pour les soldats qui ont effectué un saut de combat en parachute, un atterissage de combat en planeur ou une opération amphibie.
WOMEN
ARMY
CORPS
BRONZE
STAR
ASIATIC
PACIFIC
CAMPAIGN
ARMY
COMMENDATION
MEDAL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BRONZE STAR

Crée le 4 février 1944, elle prend effet rétroactivement à partir du 7 décembre 1941 et est décernée à tout membre des forces armées qui s'est distingué par son courage au combat ou son mérite lors d'opérations contre l'ennemi, en dehors de missions aériennes.

 

Philippine Defense
Medal

Navy
Good Conduct
Medal

West Indies Campaign
Medal
Marine Corps

 

Attribué pour le service de combat dans la défense des Philippines
du DEC 8 41 au 15 juin 42, si la personne était :

1) un membre des
forces de compartiment de Bataan ou de Manille ou d'une unité, d'un
bateau, ou d'un avion sous l'attaque ennemie

2) assigné ou
posté dans les eaux philippines pendant au moins 30 jours de
calendrier pendant cette période. Une personne qui rencontre les deux
conditions est autorisée à porter un service en bronze
tiennent le premier rôle sur le ruban.

La deuxième récompense la plus ancienne des militaires des USA,
d'abord autorisée 26 avril 1869. Attribué pour l'exécution et la
conduite exceptionnelles pendant des périodes de trois ans de service
enrôlé actif continu. Le bronze tient le premier rôle dénotent les
récompenses ultérieures. On a éliminé la barre de suspension en
1946.

Autorisé 27 juin 1908 pour la participation à la campagne navale
occidentale d'Indes contre l'Espagne au lieu de la médaille de
Sampson qui a été déclarée une médaille commémorative en 1901.
Attribué seulement jusqu'en 1910 où elle a été remplacée par la
récompense de la médaille espagnole de campagne.
RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et
le commerce militaires de musée.
Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

DISTINGUISHED
FLYING
CROSS

AIR MEDAL

WW2
VICTORY
MEDAL

Crée le 28 juin 1941, elle est attribuée aux membres des forces armées en service entre le 8 septembre 1939 et le 7 décembre 1941 et ayant signé un engagement minimum de 12 mois pendant cette période.
Cette médaille indique que le soldat était sous les drapeaux avant la déclaration de guerre.


Crée le11 mai 1942, elle est attribuée attribuée aux ETATS-UNIS et le personnel civil pour les
actes simples du héroisme ou des achievments méritoires tout en
participant au vol aérien et le personnel militaire étranger dans le
combat réel à l'appui des exécutions. L'accomplissement exigé est
inférieur cela exigé pour la croix de vol de Distingushed, mais
doit être accompli avec la distinction au-dessus et au delà de cela
prévu des aviateurs professionnels. Il n'est pas attribué pour des
activités et des vols opérationnels soutenus par temps de paix.
L'autorité d'approbation ou de désapprobation est déléguée à
MAJCOM/CC/CV pour les militaires et le secrétaire de l'Armée de
l'Air pour les civils et le personnel militaire étranger. MAJCOMs
identifiera les missions et les positions qui qualifient pour cette
récompense. Le QG USAF/XO doit certifier des critères de MAJCOM.
Cette décoration est la même pour tous les branchements des forces
armées des Etats-Unis. La médaille a été conçue par le marcheur
K. Hancock, après qu'un concours général, qui a également porté
une prime en espèces de $1.500 pour la conception de gain.

Spanish Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

First Nicaraguan Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

First Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

Dominican Campaign Service Medal - Marine Corps

Autorisé 27 juin 1908 pour le personnel de marine et de corps marins
qui a participé à la campagne navale Pacifique de 1898. RÉÉDITION
ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et le commerce
militaires de musée. Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

Autorisé 22 septembre 1913 pour le service à terre ou sur 8 a
indiqué des navires dans les eaux de Nicaragua entre 29 juillet et 14
septembre 1912.
RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et
le commerce militaires de musée.
Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

Autorisé 22 juin 1917 pour le service à terre au Haïti ou à bord
de 14 a indiqué des navires dans les eaux haïtiennes entre 9 juillet
et 6 décembre 1915.
RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et
le commerce militaires de musée.
Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked
.

Autorisé 29 décembre 1921 pour le service à terre sur Santo Domingo
ou à bord de 26 a indiqué des navires dans les eaux dominicaines
entre 16 mai et 4 décembre 1916.
RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et
le commerce militaires de musée. Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

First Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

Second Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

Civil War Service Medal - Marine Corps

Merchant Marine Pacific War Zone Medal

Autorisé 22 juin 1917 pour le service à terre au Haïti ou à bord
de 14 a indiqué des navires dans les eaux haïtiennes entre 9 juillet
et 6 décembre 1915.
RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et
le commerce militaires de musée.
Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked
.

Autorisé 29 décembre 1921 pour le service à terre au Haïti ou à
bord de 24 a indiqué des navires dans les eaux haïtiennes entre 1
avril 1919 et 15 juin 1920. RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT.
Construit pour les mémoires et le commerce militaires de musée.
Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

Autorisé 27 juin 1908 pour le service à terre ou à bord des navires
indiqués entre 15 avril 1861 et 6 novembre 1865. RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE
DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et le commerce
militaires de musée. Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

Autorisé 30 mai 1988 au suppliment la barre Pacifique de zone de
guerre de soldat de marine marchand a autorisé 10 mai 1943 pour
n'importe quel membre du soldat de marine marchand qui a servi dans la
zone indiquée (nord et océan pacifique du sud et Océan
Indien à l'est de 80E) entre 7 décembre 1941 et novembre 8 1946.

Mexican Service Medal - Marine Corps

Cuban Pacification Service Medal - Marine Corps

Philippine Congressional Service Medal

Merchant Marine WWII Victory Medal

Initialement autorisé 11 février 1918 pour la récompense aux
officiers et aux hommes enrôlés entre qui a servi à terre pendant
l'expédition de Vera Cruz 21 au 23 avril 1914. L'acceptabilité a
été rapidement augmentée pour inclure la portion de personnel à
bord de 121 bateaux spécifiques pendant des périodes indiquées à
partir du 21 avril à 26 novembre 1914 et à partir du 14 mars 1916 au
7 février 1917. Le personnel de marine et de corps marins qui a servi
dans les engagements avec les forces mexicaines hostiles en dehors de
ces périodes d'instant spécifique était également habilité à la
récompense de la médaille mexicaine de service. En tout, environ
2.500 personnels de corps marins ont été attribués la médaille
mexicaine de service avec l'inverse de corps marins d'états
d'EUnited. RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Mannufactured pour le
commerce de mémoires et de musée de militaires. Anonyme. Non-numéroté.
Unhallmarked.

Autorisé 13 août 1909 pour le service à terre au Cuba ou sur 24 a
indiqué des navires entre 12 septembre 1906 et 1 avril 1909.
RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et
le commerce militaires de musée. Anonyme. Unhallmarked. Non-numéroté.

Autorisé 29 juin 1906 pour ceux dans la guerre avec l'Espagne qui a
servi au delà de la date à l'où ils ont été autorisés pour
décharger pour aider à supprimer l'insurrection philippine.
RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et
le commerce militaires de musée. Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

Autorisé 8 août 1946 et attribué pour au moins le service de 30
jours sur les n'importe quels USA a marqué le navire entre 7
décembre 1941 et septembre 3 1945.

Second Nicaraguan Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

Philippine Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

Merchant Marine Med-Middle East War Zone Medal

Merchant Marine Defense Medal

Autorisé 8 novembre 1929 pour le service à terre au Nicaragua ou sur
les navires indiqués dans les eaux de Nicaragua entre 27 août 1926
et 2 janvier 1933. RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit
pour les mémoires et le commerce militaires de musée. Anonyme.
Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

Autorisé 27 juin 1908 pour le service sur 64 navires indiqués et 4
stations de rivage dans les îles philippines entre 4 février 1899 et
6 mars 1906. RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les
mémoires et le commerce militaires de musée. Anonyme. Non-numéroté.
Unhallmarked.

Autorisé 30 mai 1988 au suppliment la barre orientale Med-Moyenne de
zone de guerre de soldat de marine marchand a autorisé 10 mai 1943
pour n'importe quel membre du soldat de marine marchand qui a servi
dans la zone indiquée (mer méditerranéenne, mer rouge, mer Arabe,
Océan Indien à l'ouest de 80E) entre 7 décembre 1941 et 8 novembre
1945.

Autorisé 30 mai 1988 au suppliment la barre de la défense de soldat
de marine marchand a autorisé 29 août 1944 pour n'importe quel
membre du soldat de marine marchand qui a servi à tout moment pendant
la période 8 septembre 1939 et 6 décembre 1941.

Second Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

DISTINGUISHED
FLYING
CROSS

DISTINGUISHED
UNIT
CITATION
DUC

MEDAL
OF
HONOR

 

 

il n'y a pas de décoration pour cette citation

 

 



Autorisé 29 décembre 1921 pour le service à terre au Haïti ou à
bord de 24 a indiqué des navires dans les eaux haïtiennes entre 1
avril 1919 et 15 juin 1920. RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT.
Construit pour les mémoires et le commerce militaires de musée.
Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

Elle est attribuée à n'importe quel officier ou homme du rang
enrôlé dans les forces armées des USA qui se seront distingués
pour héroisme ou
par un accomplissement extraordinaire de soit même, tout en participant à un vol aérien,
ultérieur au 11 novembre 1918.

La décoration peut également être
donnée pour un acte exécuté avant 11 novembre 1918, quand
l'individu a été recommandé pour, mais n'a pas reçu la médaille
de l'honneur, de la croix de service distingué, de la croix de
marine, ou de la médaille de service distingué. La croix de vol
distinguée, autorisée par un acte du congrès de 2 juillet 1926
(modifié par commande exécutive 7786 8 janvier 1938), a été

Instituée le 26 février 1942, elle prend effet rétroactivement à partir du 7 décembre 1941.

Cette barette est portée au dessus de la poche droite.
la DUC récompense collectivement le personnel d'une unité pour son comportement exceptionnel au combat.

En 1957, elle prendra la dénomination de :
Presidential Unit Citation.

il n'y a pas de décoration pour cette citation
.

Instituée le 12 décembre 1861, c'est la 4e version qui est confectionnée.

C'est la plus haute décoration décernée à un membre des forces armées pour acte de bravoure face à l'ennemi, au péril de sa vie et au delà de toutes exigences du devoir.

Prisoner of War Medal

Navy Good Conduct Medal

Cette médaille a été autorisée par Congress et signée dans la loi
par le Président Reagan en 1986. La médaille peut être attribuée
à toute personne qui était un prisonnier de guerre après 5 avril
1917, (la date de l'entrée des Etats-Unis dans la guerre mondiale
une). Elle est attribuée à toute personne qui a été prise le
prisonnier ou tenu le captif tandis qu'occupée dans une action contre
un ennemi des Etats-Unis ; tandis qu'occupé dans des exécutions
militaires impliquer le conflit d'une opposition a armé la force ; ou
tandis que servir avec les forces amicales occupées dans le conflit
armé contre une opposition armait la force dans laquelle les
Etats-Unis ne sont pas une partie belligérante. La conduite de la
personne, alors qu'en captivité, doit avoir été honorable. Cette
médaille peut être attribuée à titre posthume à la survie ensuite
des parents du destinataire.

La deuxième récompense la plus ancienne des militaires des USA,
d'abord autorisée 26 avril 1869. Attribué pour l'exécution et la
conduite exceptionnelles pendant des périodes de trois ans de service
enrôlé actif continu. Le bronze tient le premier rôle dénotent les
récompenses ultérieures. Le modèle actuel de ruban de suspension
d'à travers-boucle postdate 1946.

Puerto Rico Occupation Medal

China Relief Expedition Medal - Navy

China Service Medal - Marine Corps

Army Commendation Medal

Autorisé 28 juin 1915 pour le service au Porto Rico entre 14 août et
10 décembre 1898.
RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour le commerce
militaire de mémoires et de musée.

Autorisé 27 juin 1908 pour le service à terre en Chine ou sur 11 a
indiqué des navires entre 24 mai 1900 et 27 mai 1901.
RÉÉDITION ACTUELLE DE GOUVERNEMENT. Construit pour les mémoires et
le commerce militaires de musée. Anonyme. Non-numéroté. Unhallmarked.

Autorisé 23 août 1940 pour le service en Chine entre 7 juillet 1937
et 7 septembre 1939 OU en Chine, les détroits de Matsu ou Taiwan
entre 2 septembre 1945 et 1 avril 1957.

Autorisé comme un ruban 18 décembre 1945 de service à attribuer aux
soldats juniors pour des actes de l'accomplissement ou du service
méritoire. La récompense au Général Officers est spécifiquement
interdite pendant le temps de paix. Le pendant de médaille a ajouté
en 1960

Humane Action Medal (Berlin Airlift)

gardé au personnel à qui ont été assignés ou ont attaché et au
présent pour le devoir pendant au moins 120 jours pendant la période
26 juin 1948 et 30 sept 1949, inclus, avec quelles des unités citées
dans le service des commandes générales de l'Armée de l'Air pour
participer au transport aérien de Berlin ou pour le support direct du
transport aérien de Berlin. La médaille pour l'action humanitaire
peut être attribuée aux membres et aux civils armés étrangers de
forces (les USA et étranger) pour la participation méritoire au
transport aérien de Berlin. Dans chaque exemple, cependant, une
recommandation individuelle indiquant la participation méritoire est
exigée. Les personnes dont les vies ont été détruites tout en
participant au transport aérien de Berlin, ou comme un résultat
direct de participer au transport aérien de Berlin, peut être
attribué la médaille pour l'action humanitaire sans souci de la
longueur du service ont fourni toutes autres conditions sont réunies.

111

112

Legion of Merit - Officer

The Silver Star Medal

Une fois que la récompense en second lieu la plus élevée de la
marine, cette médaille était autorisée par Congress 4 février 1919
et était attribuée à toute personne qui tout en servant dans
n'importe quelle capacité avec la marine des ETATS-UNIS, distinguée
par "service particulièrement méritoire au gouvernement dans un
devoir de la grande responsabilité", après 6 avril 1917. La
médaille de service distingué a été conçue par Paul Manship et a
été attribuée pour le service de combat ou de noncombat. Une
première conception, comportant un point d'attache avec un soleil de
réglage dans le fond, et suspendu par un aigle et un défilement avec
les dates : "1917-1918", a été parfois porté, mais n'a été jamais
autorisé pour la récompense. En 1942, la croix de marine a été
donnée la priorité au-dessus de cette médaille.

Initialement attribué pour le héroisme de combat et de noncombat,
bien que la plupart des premières récompenses aient été émises
pour le service de Première Guerre Mondiale, d'autres ont été
présentés pour le héroisme dans des exécutions de délivrance
impliquant les désastres submersibles. La médaille a été conçue
par James E. Fraser et a été autorisée par Congress 4 février
1919. Elle a été faite combattent-seulement la récompense en 1942
et ont été également données la priorité au-dessus de la
médaille de service distingué à ce moment, lui faisant la
décoration en second lieu la plus haute de la marine.

La première décoration des Etats-Unis créée spécifiquement pour
la récompense aux citoyens d'autres nations. Établi par une Loi du
congrès de 20 juillet 1942, modifié par une commande exécutive de
15 mars 1955. Conféré sur les hommes enrôlés des forces armées
des Etats-Unis et sur les ressortissants d'autres comtés "qui se
seront distingués par conduite particulièrement méritoire dans
l'exécution des services exceptionnels" depuis 8 September1939, la
date de la proclamation du président de l'état d'urgence que cela a
menée à la deuxième guerre mondiale. La légion de mérite peut
être attribuée pour des services de combat ou de noncombat ; dans le
cas du personnel militaire américain, si la récompense est pour le
service de combat elle est montrée par le port d'un combat "V." La
légion de mérite a été initialement rangée directement au-dessous
de la médaille de service distingué dans la pyramide de la marine de
l'honneur." Ceci a été changé par le numéro directif 49 de Navy de
28 janvier 1946, qui a placé la légion de mérite immédiatement
au-dessous de l'argent Tient le premier rôle, de ce fait lui faisant
décoration du rang de la marine la cinquième. La légion de mérite
est également la première récompense pour avoir différents
degrés. Si un support de la légion de mérite en un degré est
ultérieurement donné à uns autre de ce genre récompense, il n'est
jamais dans un degré plus bas que l'initial. Les degrés de
commandant en chef et de commandant sont conférés sur des membres
des gouvernements étrangers seulement et sont attribués pour des
services comparables à ceux pour lesquels la médaille de service
distingué est donnée aux membres des forces armées par Etats-Unis.

L'argent Tiennent le premier rôle la médaille a eu son début pendant la
Première Guerre Mondiale. Une Loi du congrès de 9 juillet 1918,
autorisé le port par le personnel d'Army d'un petit argent
tiennent le premier rôle, 3/16 de pouce de diamètre, sur le ruban de service
d'une médaille de campagne, pour indiquer "une citation pour la
galantery dans l'action, éditée dans les commandes émises des
sièges sociaux d'un officier général, ne justifiant pas la
récompense d'une médaille de croix d'honneur ou de service
distingué." Connu dans l'armée comme "citation tenez le premier rôle" la
récompense a été rendu rétroactif, de sorte que tout ceux cités
pour la galantery dans l'action dans des campagnes précédentes,
même pendant que loin comme guerre Espagnol-Américaine, aient été
éligibles pour la porter. On l'estime que plus de 20.000 membres de
l'armée ont reçu de telles citations avant 1918. Un dispositif
semblable a été autorisé pour le personnel de marine et de corps
marins dans 1920 qui ont autorisé "une lettre spéciale de
Belobigung" à être attribuée suivant les recommandations du conseil
de la récompense navale. La réception de cette lettre spéciale de
Belobigung a autorisé son destinataire à porter un petit argent
tiennent le premier rôle sur le ruban de la médaille de victoire. 8 août
1932, l'argent Tiennent le premier rôle a été remodelé comme médaille par
une Loi du congrès. L'argent Tiennent le premier rôle est actuel attribué par
tous les branchements des forces armées à toute personne qui, tout
en servant dans n'importe quelle capacité, est citée pour la
galantery dans l'action contre un ennemi des Etats-Unis tandis
qu'occupée dans des exécutions militaires impliquant le conflit
d'une force étrangère d'opposition, ou tandis que servir avec les
forces amicales contre une opposition armait la force dans laquelle
les Etats-Unis ne sont pas une partie belligérante. L'armée a
annoncé que n'importe qui qui avait précédemment gagné une
citation Tenez le premier rôle pourrait s'appliquer pour l'argent
Tiennent le premier rôle la médaille. Le personnel de marine et de corps
marins pourrait seulement s'appliquer, s'ils étaient attribués à
des citations tiennent le premier rôle par l'armée. Le mode de l'argent
Tiennent le premier rôle a été encore clarifié, quand 7 août 1942, le
congrès a autorisé la récompense de l'argent Tiennent le premier rôle à
toute personne qui, tout en servant dans toute capacité avec la
marine depuis 6 décembre 1941, distingué par galantery et
intrépidité dans l'action, mais pas à caractère de justifier la
récompense de la croix de marine. Quatre mois plus tard, 15 décembre
1942, la décoration a été étendue au personnel d'armée pour la
galantery dans l'action, mais pas d'un degré pour justifier une
récompense de la croix de service distingué."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SILVER STAR
DISTINGUISHED
SERVICE
CROSS
MEDAL
SOLDIER MEDAL
PURPLE HEART
he Silver Star Medal had its beginning during World War I. An Act of Congress of 9 July 1918, authorized the wearing by Army personnel of a small silver star, 3/16 of an inch in diameter, upon the service ribbon of a campaign medal, to indicate "a citation for gallantry in action, published in orders issued from headquarters of a general officer, not warranting the award of a Medal of Honor or Distinguished Service Cross." Known in the Army as the "citation star" the award was made retroactive, so that all those cited for gallantry in action in previous campaigns, even as far back as the Spanish-American War, were eligible to wear it. It is estimated that more than 20,000 members of the Army received such citations before 1918. A similar device was authorized for Navy and Marine Corps personnel in 1920 which authorized a "special letter of commendation" to be awarded on the recommendation of the Board of Naval Award. Receipt of this special letter of commendation authorized its recipient to wear a small silver star on the ribbon of the Victory Medal. On 8 August 1932, the Silver Star was re-designed as a medal by an Act of Congress. The Silver Star is currently awarded by all branches of the Armed Forces to any person who, while serving in any capacity, is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force, or while serving with friendly forces against an opposing Armed Force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. Army announced that anyone who had previously earned a Citation Star could apply for the Silver Star Medal. Navy and Marine Corps personnel could only apply, if they were awarded a citations star by the Army. The status of the Silver Star was further clarified, when on 7 August 1942, Congress authorized the award of the Silver Star to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy since 6 December 1941, distinguished himself by gallantry and intrepidity in action, but not of a nature to justify the award of the Navy Cross. Four months later, on 15 December 1942, the decoration was extended to Army personnel for gallantry in action, but not of a degree to justify an award of the Distinguished Service Cross.”
SILVER STAR


La Citation Star crée le 9 juillet 1918 devient une médaille le 8 août 1932.
Elle est remise aux membres de l'armée de terre qui ont servi avec bravoure au combat, face à
l' ennemi.

DISTINGUISHED
SERVICE CROSS

Crée le 9 juillet 1918, elle est décerné aux membres des forces armées qui se sont distingués par un acte d'héroïsme ne justifiant pas la Médal od Honnor

 

 

uthorized  9 July 1918 and ammended 25 July 1963. In recognition of any person, who, while serving with the Army in any capacity, distinguishes himself by extraordinary heroism in combat. Second highest award (lessor only to the Medal Of Honor) of the Army and the highest award authorized for presentation to civilians.

 

SOLDIER' S MEDAL


Instituée le 2 juillet 1926, elle récompense tout acte d'héroïsme sans contact
avec l' ennemi.

PURPLE HEART


Reintroduite en février 1932, c'est la forme moderne de la décoration établie par le général George Washington en 1782.
Elle est remise à tout personnel des forces armées bléssés au combat.
Elle est également décernée à titre posthume aux soldat tués au combat ou décédés suite à leurs blessures.

 

 

The modern form of the original Purple Heart established by General George Washington in 1782, is conferred on any person wounded in action while serving with the Armed Forces of the United States. It is also awarded posthumously to the next of kin of personnel killed or having died of wounds received in action after 5 April 1917. The Purple Heart is awarded for wounds or death as result of an act of any opposing Armed Force, as a result of an international terrorist attack or as a result of military operations while serving as part of a peacekeeping force. Prior to the adoption of the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star Medal, it was given by the Army for meritorious service. The decoration was authorized for the Army by a War Department order of 22 February 1932, and for Navy and Marine Corps personnel by a Navy Department order of 21 January 1943, superseded by an executive order of 12 November 1952. The heart-shaped medal, one of the best known and also one of the most beautiful of our decorations, was designed by Elizabeth Will and modeled by John R. Sinnock. Second and subsequent awards of the Purple Heart are denoted by a gold star for Navy and Marine Corps personnel and by an oak-leaf cluster for Army and Air Force personnel.

AMERICAN
DEFENCE
SERVICE MEDAL
ARMY
GOOD CONDUCT
MEDAL
AMERICAN
CAMPAIGN
MEDAL
EUROPEAN
AFRICAN
MIDDLE EASTERN
CAMPAIGN
MEDAL

 


AMERICAN DEFENCE SERVICE MEDAL


Crée le 28 juin 1941, elle est attribuée aux membres des forces armées en service entre le 8 septembre 1939 et le 7 décembre 1941 et ayant signé un engagement minimum de 12 mois pendant cette période.
Cette médaille indique que le soldat était sous les drapeaux avant la déclaration de guerre.
ARMY GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL


Crée le 28 juin 1941, cette médaille de bonne conduite est attribuée uniquement aux hommes de troupes.
Pour l' obtenir le soldat doit justifier d'un an d'état de service exemplaire pendant la guerre ou de 3 ans consécutifs de bons services.
Un attribut symbolisant une corde nouée est placé sur le ruban à chaque nouvelle attribution.
AMERICAN CAMPAIGN MEDAL


Instituée le 6 novembre 1942, elle est attribuée pour trente jours de services consécutif dans un théâtre
d'opérations entre le 7 décembre 1941 et le 2 mars 1946, ou pour une année de service aux USA.
EUROPEAN AFRICAN MIDDLE EASTERN CAMPAIGN MEDAL

Crée le 6 décembre 1942, elle est remise pour trente jours de service consécutif en Europe, en Afrique ou au Moyen Orient entre le 7 décembre 1941 et le 8 novembre 1945.
Une étoile de bronze est fixé au ruban pour chaque nouvelle campagne.
A partir de 1944, une pointe de flèche en bronze est placée sur la partie droite du ruban, pour les soldats qui ont effectué un saut de combat en parachute, un atterissage de combat en planeur ou une opération amphibie.
WOMEN
ARMY
CORPS
BRONZE
STAR
ASIATIC
PACIFIC
CAMPAIGN
ARMY
COMMENDATION
MEDAL

ir Medal

 

This decoration, established by Executive Order 9158, 11 May 1942, as amended by Executive Order 9242, 11 September 1942 is awarded to U.S. and civilian personnel for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievments while participating in aerial flight and foreign military personnel in actual combat in support of operations. Required achievement is less than that required for the Distingushed Flying Cross, but must be accomplished with distinction above and beyond that expected of professional airmen. It is not awarded for peace time sustained operational activities and flights. Approval or disapproval authority is delegated to MAJCOM/CC/CV for military and Secretary of the Air Force for civilians and foreign military personnel. MAJCOMs will identify the missions and positions that qualify for this award. HQ USAF/XO must certify MAJCOM criteria. This decoration is the same for all branches of the Armed Forces of the United States. The medal was designed by Walker K. Hancock, after an open competition, which also carried a cash award of $1,500 for the winning design.

Philippine Defense Medal

Awarded for combat service in the defense of the Philippines from 8 Dec 41 to 15 Jun 42, if the person was: 1) a member of the Bataan or Manila Bay forces or of a unit, ship, or airplane under enemy attack; or 2) assigned or stationed in Philippine waters for at least 30 calendar days during this period. A person who meets both conditions is authorized to wear a bronze service star on the ribbon.

 

Navy Good Conduct Medal (Old Style)

 

The second oldest award of the US Military, first authorized on 26 April 1869. Awarded for outstanding performance and conduct during three-year periods of continuous active enlisted service. Bronze stars denote subsequent awards. Suspension bar was eliminated in 1946.

West Indies Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  27 June 1908 for participation in the West Indies Naval Campaign against Spain in lieu of the Sampson Medal which was declared a commemorative medal in 1901. Awarded only until 1910 when it was replaced by award of the Spanish Campaign Medal.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
 
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

 

 

 

 

Soldiers Medal

 

Authorized  2 July 1926 for noncombat acts of heroism involving the voluntary risk of life.

BRONZE STAR

Crée le 4 février 1944, elle prend effet rétroactivement à partir du 7 décembre 1941 et est décernée à tout membre des forces armées qui s'est distingué par son courage au combat ou son mérite lors d'opérations contre l'ennemi, en dehors de missions aériennes.

   
DISTINGUISHED
FLYING
CROSS
AIR MEDAL
WW2
VICTORY
MEDAL

Spanish Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  27 June 1908 for Navy and Marine Corps personnel who participated in the Pacific Naval Campaign of 1898.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

irst Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  22 June 1917 for service ashore in Haiti or aboard 14 designated vessels in Haitian waters between 9 July and 6 December 1915.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
 
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Dominican Campaign Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

 

Authorized  29 December 1921 for service ashore on Santo Domingo or aboard 26 designated vessels in Dominican waters between 16 May and 4 December 1916.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

 

 

Second Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

 

Authorized 29 December 1921 for service ashore in Haiti or aboard 24 designated vessels in Haitian waters between 1 April 1919 and 15 June 1920.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

First Nicaraguan Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

 

Authorized  22 September 1913 for service ashore or on 8 designated vessels in Nicaraguan waters between 29 July and 14 September 1912.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
 
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Civil War Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  27 June 1908 for service ashore or aboard designated vessels between 15 April 1861 and 6 November 1865.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Merchant Marine Pacific War Zone Medal

 

Authorized  30 May 1988 to suppliment the Merchant Marine Pacific War Zone Bar authorized 10 May 1943 for any member of the Merchant Marine who served in the designated area (North and South Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean east of 80E) between 7 December 1941 and November 8 1946.

Mexican Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

Originally authorized 11 February 1918 for award to officers and enlisted men who served ashore during the Vera Cruz expedition between 21 – 23 April 1914. Eligibility was quickly expanded to include personnel serving aboard 121 specific ships during specified periods from 21 April to 26 November 1914 and from 14 March 1916 to 7 February 1917. Navy and Marine Corps personnel who served in engagements with hostile Mexican forces outside those specific time periods were also eligible for award of the Mexican Service Medal. In all, about 2,500 Marine Corps personnel were awarded the Mexican Service Medal with the ‘United States Marine Corps’ reverse.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Mannufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Cuban Pacification Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  13 August 1909 for service ashore in Cuba or on 24 designated vessels between 12 September 1906 and 1 April 1909.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unhallmarked. Unnumbered.

Philippine Congressional Service Medal

 

 

Authorized 29 June 1906 for those in the War with Spain who served beyond the date on which they were entitled to discharge to help suppress the Philippine Insurrection.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Merchant Marine WWII Victory Medal

 

Authorized  8 August 1946 and awarded for at least 30 days service on any US flagged vessel between 7 December 1941 and September 3 1945.

Second Nicaraguan Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  8 November 1929 for service ashore in Nicaragua or on designated vessels in Nicaraguan waters between 27 August 1926 and 2 January 1933.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

 

 

Philippine Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized 27 June 1908 for service on 64 designated vessels and 4 shore stations in the Philippine Islands between 4 February 1899 and 6 March 1906.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Merchant Marine Med-Middle East War Zone Medal

 

Authorized  30 May 1988 to suppliment the Merchant Marine Med-Middle Eastern War Zone  Bar authorized 10 May 1943 for any member of the Merchant Marine who served in the designated area (Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean west of 80E) between 7 December 1941 and 8 November 1945.

Merchant Marine Defense Medal

 

Authorized  30 May 1988 to suppliment the Merchant Marine Defense Bar authorized 29 August 1944 for any member of the Merchant Marine who served at any time during the period 8 September 1939 and 6 December 1941.

econd Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized 29 December 1921 for service ashore in Haiti or aboard 24 designated vessels in Haitian waters between 1 April 1919 and 15 June 1920.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

 

Distinguished Flying Cross

 

 

This medal is awarded to any officer or enlisted man of the Armed Forces of the United States who shall have distinguished himself in actual combat in support of operations by "heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight, subsequent to 11 November 1918." The decoration may also be given for an act performed prior to 11 November 1918, when the individual has been recommended for, but has not received the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, or Distinguished Service Medal. The Distinguished Flying Cross, authorized by an Act of Congress of 2 July 1926 (amended by Executive Order 7786 on 8 January 1938), was awarded first to Captain Charles A. Lindbergh, of the U.S. Army Air Corps Reserve, for his solo flight of 3600 miles across the Atlantic in 1927. The first D.F.C. to be awarded to a Navy man was to Commander Richard E. Byrd, of the U.S. Navy Air Corps, on 9 May 1926, for his flight to and from the North Pole. Both these famous aviators also received the Medal of Honor with the Distinguished Flying Cross. The Aviatrix Amelia Earhart also received the Distinguished Flying Cross. Hers was the only such award, as an executive order on 1 March 1927, ruled that D.F.C. should not be conferred on civilians. During wartime, members of the Armed Forces of friendly foreign nations serving with the United States are eligible for the D.F.C. Subsequent awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross are indicated by oak-leaf clusters for Army and Air Force personnel and by additional award stars for members of the Naval services.

Prisoner of War Medal

 

This medal was authorized by Congress and signed into law by President Reagan in 1986. The medal may be awarded to any person who was a prisoner of war after 5 April 1917, (the date of the United States entry into World War One). It is awarded to any person who was taken prisoner or held captive while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States; while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing Armed Force; or while serving with friendly forces engaged in armed conflict against an opposing Armed Force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. The person's conduct, while in captivity, must have been honorable. This medal may be awarded posthumously to the surviving next of kin of the recipient.

Navy Good Conduct Medal

 

The second oldest award of the US Military, first authorized on 26 April 1869. Awarded for outstanding performance and conduct during three-year periods of continuous active enlisted service. Bronze stars denote subsequent awards. Present through-ring suspension ribbon style post-dates 1946.

   
       

Puerto Rico Occupation Medal

 

Authorized  28 June 1915 for service in Puerto Rico between 14 August and 10 December 1898.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum trade.

China Relief Expedition Medal - Navy

 

Authorized  27 June 1908 for service ashore in China or on 11 designated vessels between 24 May 1900 and 27 May 1901.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

China Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  23 August 1940 for service in China between 7 July 1937 and 7 September 1939
OR
 in China, the Matsu Straits or Taiwan between 2 September 1945 and 1 April 1957.

Army Commendation Medal

 

Authorized  as a Service Ribbon 18 December 1945 to be awarded to junior soldiers for acts of achievement or meritorious service. Award to General Officers is specifically prohibited during peacetime. Medal pendant added in 1960

Humane Action Medal (Berlin Airlift)

 

warded to personnel who were assigned or attached to and present for duty for at least 120 days during the period 26 Jun 1948 and 30 Sep 1949, inclusive, with any of the units cited in Department of the Air Force general orders for participating in the Berlin Airlift or for direct support of the Berlin Airlift. The Medal for Humane Action may be awarded to foreign armed forces members and civilians (US and foreign) for meritorious participation in the Berlin Airlift. In each instance, however, an individual recommendation indicating meritorious participation is required. Persons whose lives were lost while participating in the Berlin Airlift, or as a direct result of participating in the Berlin Airlift, may be awarded the Medal for Humane Action without regard to the length of the service provided all other requirements are met.

     

111

Navy Cross

Once the Navy's second highest award, this medal was authorized by Congress on 4 February 1919 and was awarded to any person who while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Navy, distinguished himself by "exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility", after 6 April 1917. The Distinguished Service Medal was designed by Paul Manship and was awarded for combat or noncombat service. An earlier design, featuring an anchor with a setting sun in the background, and suspended by an eagle and a scroll with the dates: "1917-1918", was sometimes worn, but was never authorized for award. In 1942, The Navy Cross was given precedence over this medal.

112

 

Originally awarded for combat and noncombat heroism, although most of the early awards were issued for World War I service, others were presented for heroism in rescue operations involving submarine disasters. The medal was designed by James E. Fraser and was authorized by Congress on 4 February 1919. It was made a combat-only award in 1942 and was also given precedence over the Distinguished Service Medal at this time, making it the Navy's second highest decoration.

Legion of Merit - Officer

114

The first United States decoration created specifically for award to citizens of other nations. Established by an Act of Congress of 20 July 1942, amended by an executive order of 15 March 1955. Conferred on enlisted men of the Armed Forces of the United States and on nationals of other counties "who shall have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services" since 8 September1939, the date of the President's proclamation of the state of emergency that led to World War II. The Legion of Merit may be awarded for combat or noncombat services; in the case of American military personnel, if the award is for combat service it is shown by the wearing of a combat "V." The Legion of Merit was originally ranked directly below the Distinguished Service Medal in the Navy's pyramid of honor." This was changed by Navy directive number 49 of  28 January 1946, which placed the Legion of Merit immediately below the Silver Star, thus making it the Navy's fifth ranking decoration. The Legion of Merit is also the first award to have different degrees. If a holder of the Legion of Merit in one degree is subsequently given another such award, it is never in a degree lower than the original one. The degrees of Chief Commander and Commander are conferred on members of foreign governments only and are awarded for services comparable to those for which the Distinguished Service Medal is given to members of the United States Armed Forces.

The Silver Star Medal

 

had its beginning during World War I. An Act of Congress of 9 July 1918, authorized the wearing by Army personnel of a small silver star, 3/16 of an inch in diameter, upon the service ribbon of a campaign medal, to indicate "a citation for gallantry in action, published in orders issued from headquarters of a general officer, not warranting the award of a Medal of Honor or Distinguished Service Cross." Known in the Army as the "citation star" the award was made retroactive, so that all those cited for gallantry in action in previous campaigns, even as far back as the Spanish-American War, were eligible to wear it. It is estimated that more than 20,000 members of the Army received such citations before 1918. A similar device was authorized for Navy and Marine Corps personnel in 1920 which authorized a "special letter of commendation" to be awarded on the recommendation of the Board of Naval Award. Receipt of this special letter of commendation authorized its recipient to wear a small silver star on the ribbon of the Victory Medal. On 8 August 1932, the Silver Star was re-designed as a medal by an Act of Congress. The Silver Star is currently awarded by all branches of the Armed Forces to any person who, while serving in any capacity, is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force, or while serving with friendly forces against an opposing Armed Force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. Army announced that anyone who had previously earned a Citation Star could apply for the Silver Star Medal. Navy and Marine Corps personnel could only apply, if they were awarded a citations star by the Army. The status of the Silver Star was further clarified, when on 7 August 1942, Congress authorized the award of the Silver Star to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy since 6 December 1941, distinguished himself by gallantry and intrepidity in action, but not of a nature to justify the award of the Navy Cross. Four months later, on 15 December 1942, the decoration was extended to Army personnel for gallantry in action, but not of a degree to justify an award of the Distinguished Service Cross.”

 

SILVER STAR
DISTINGUISHED
SERVICE
CROSS
MEDAL
SOLDIER MEDAL
PURPLE HEART
he Silver Star Medal had its beginning during World War I. An Act of Congress of 9 July 1918, authorized the wearing by Army personnel of a small silver star, 3/16 of an inch in diameter, upon the service ribbon of a campaign medal, to indicate "a citation for gallantry in action, published in orders issued from headquarters of a general officer, not warranting the award of a Medal of Honor or Distinguished Service Cross." Known in the Army as the "citation star" the award was made retroactive, so that all those cited for gallantry in action in previous campaigns, even as far back as the Spanish-American War, were eligible to wear it. It is estimated that more than 20,000 members of the Army received such citations before 1918. A similar device was authorized for Navy and Marine Corps personnel in 1920 which authorized a "special letter of commendation" to be awarded on the recommendation of the Board of Naval Award. Receipt of this special letter of commendation authorized its recipient to wear a small silver star on the ribbon of the Victory Medal. On 8 August 1932, the Silver Star was re-designed as a medal by an Act of Congress. The Silver Star is currently awarded by all branches of the Armed Forces to any person who, while serving in any capacity, is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force, or while serving with friendly forces against an opposing Armed Force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. Army announced that anyone who had previously earned a Citation Star could apply for the Silver Star Medal. Navy and Marine Corps personnel could only apply, if they were awarded a citations star by the Army. The status of the Silver Star was further clarified, when on 7 August 1942, Congress authorized the award of the Silver Star to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy since 6 December 1941, distinguished himself by gallantry and intrepidity in action, but not of a nature to justify the award of the Navy Cross. Four months later, on 15 December 1942, the decoration was extended to Army personnel for gallantry in action, but not of a degree to justify an award of the Distinguished Service Cross.”
SILVER STAR


La Citation Star crée le 9 juillet 1918 devient une médaille le 8 août 1932.
Elle est remise aux membres de l'armée de terre qui ont servi avec bravoure au combat, face à
l' ennemi.

DISTINGUISHED
SERVICE CROSS

Crée le 9 juillet 1918, elle est décerné aux membres des forces armées qui se sont distingués par un acte d'héroïsme ne justifiant pas la Médal od Honnor

 

 

uthorized  9 July 1918 and ammended 25 July 1963. In recognition of any person, who, while serving with the Army in any capacity, distinguishes himself by extraordinary heroism in combat. Second highest award (lessor only to the Medal Of Honor) of the Army and the highest award authorized for presentation to civilians.

 

SOLDIER' S MEDAL


Instituée le 2 juillet 1926, elle récompense tout acte d'héroïsme sans contact
avec l' ennemi.

PURPLE HEART


Reintroduite en février 1932, c'est la forme moderne de la décoration établie par le général George Washington en 1782.
Elle est remise à tout personnel des forces armées bléssés au combat.
Elle est également décernée à titre posthume aux soldat tués au combat ou décédés suite à leurs blessures.

 

 

The modern form of the original Purple Heart established by General George Washington in 1782, is conferred on any person wounded in action while serving with the Armed Forces of the United States. It is also awarded posthumously to the next of kin of personnel killed or having died of wounds received in action after 5 April 1917. The Purple Heart is awarded for wounds or death as result of an act of any opposing Armed Force, as a result of an international terrorist attack or as a result of military operations while serving as part of a peacekeeping force. Prior to the adoption of the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star Medal, it was given by the Army for meritorious service. The decoration was authorized for the Army by a War Department order of 22 February 1932, and for Navy and Marine Corps personnel by a Navy Department order of 21 January 1943, superseded by an executive order of 12 November 1952. The heart-shaped medal, one of the best known and also one of the most beautiful of our decorations, was designed by Elizabeth Will and modeled by John R. Sinnock. Second and subsequent awards of the Purple Heart are denoted by a gold star for Navy and Marine Corps personnel and by an oak-leaf cluster for Army and Air Force personnel.

AMERICAN
DEFENCE
SERVICE MEDAL
ARMY
GOOD CONDUCT
MEDAL
AMERICAN
CAMPAIGN
MEDAL
EUROPEAN
AFRICAN
MIDDLE EASTERN
CAMPAIGN
MEDAL

 


AMERICAN DEFENCE SERVICE MEDAL


Crée le 28 juin 1941, elle est attribuée aux membres des forces armées en service entre le 8 septembre 1939 et le 7 décembre 1941 et ayant signé un engagement minimum de 12 mois pendant cette période.
Cette médaille indique que le soldat était sous les drapeaux avant la déclaration de guerre.
ARMY GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL


Crée le 28 juin 1941, cette médaille de bonne conduite est attribuée uniquement aux hommes de troupes.
Pour l' obtenir le soldat doit justifier d'un an d'état de service exemplaire pendant la guerre ou de 3 ans consécutifs de bons services.
Un attribut symbolisant une corde nouée est placé sur le ruban à chaque nouvelle attribution.
AMERICAN CAMPAIGN MEDAL


Instituée le 6 novembre 1942, elle est attribuée pour trente jours de services consécutif dans un théâtre
d'opérations entre le 7 décembre 1941 et le 2 mars 1946, ou pour une année de service aux USA.
EUROPEAN AFRICAN MIDDLE EASTERN CAMPAIGN MEDAL

Crée le 6 décembre 1942, elle est remise pour trente jours de service consécutif en Europe, en Afrique ou au Moyen Orient entre le 7 décembre 1941 et le 8 novembre 1945.
Une étoile de bronze est fixé au ruban pour chaque nouvelle campagne.
A partir de 1944, une pointe de flèche en bronze est placée sur la partie droite du ruban, pour les soldats qui ont effectué un saut de combat en parachute, un atterissage de combat en planeur ou une opération amphibie.
WOMEN
ARMY
CORPS
BRONZE
STAR
ASIATIC
PACIFIC
CAMPAIGN
ARMY
COMMENDATION
MEDAL

ir Medal

 

This decoration, established by Executive Order 9158, 11 May 1942, as amended by Executive Order 9242, 11 September 1942 is awarded to U.S. and civilian personnel for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievments while participating in aerial flight and foreign military personnel in actual combat in support of operations. Required achievement is less than that required for the Distingushed Flying Cross, but must be accomplished with distinction above and beyond that expected of professional airmen. It is not awarded for peace time sustained operational activities and flights. Approval or disapproval authority is delegated to MAJCOM/CC/CV for military and Secretary of the Air Force for civilians and foreign military personnel. MAJCOMs will identify the missions and positions that qualify for this award. HQ USAF/XO must certify MAJCOM criteria. This decoration is the same for all branches of the Armed Forces of the United States. The medal was designed by Walker K. Hancock, after an open competition, which also carried a cash award of $1,500 for the winning design.

Philippine Defense Medal

Awarded for combat service in the defense of the Philippines from 8 Dec 41 to 15 Jun 42, if the person was: 1) a member of the Bataan or Manila Bay forces or of a unit, ship, or airplane under enemy attack; or 2) assigned or stationed in Philippine waters for at least 30 calendar days during this period. A person who meets both conditions is authorized to wear a bronze service star on the ribbon.

 

Navy Good Conduct Medal (Old Style)

 

The second oldest award of the US Military, first authorized on 26 April 1869. Awarded for outstanding performance and conduct during three-year periods of continuous active enlisted service. Bronze stars denote subsequent awards. Suspension bar was eliminated in 1946.

West Indies Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  27 June 1908 for participation in the West Indies Naval Campaign against Spain in lieu of the Sampson Medal which was declared a commemorative medal in 1901. Awarded only until 1910 when it was replaced by award of the Spanish Campaign Medal.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
 
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

 

 

 

 

Soldiers Medal

 

Authorized  2 July 1926 for noncombat acts of heroism involving the voluntary risk of life.

BRONZE STAR

Crée le 4 février 1944, elle prend effet rétroactivement à partir du 7 décembre 1941 et est décernée à tout membre des forces armées qui s'est distingué par son courage au combat ou son mérite lors d'opérations contre l'ennemi, en dehors de missions aériennes.

   
DISTINGUISHED
FLYING
CROSS
AIR MEDAL
WW2
VICTORY
MEDAL

Spanish Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  27 June 1908 for Navy and Marine Corps personnel who participated in the Pacific Naval Campaign of 1898.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

irst Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  22 June 1917 for service ashore in Haiti or aboard 14 designated vessels in Haitian waters between 9 July and 6 December 1915.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
 
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Dominican Campaign Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

 

Authorized  29 December 1921 for service ashore on Santo Domingo or aboard 26 designated vessels in Dominican waters between 16 May and 4 December 1916.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

 

 

Second Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

 

Authorized 29 December 1921 for service ashore in Haiti or aboard 24 designated vessels in Haitian waters between 1 April 1919 and 15 June 1920.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

First Nicaraguan Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

 

Authorized  22 September 1913 for service ashore or on 8 designated vessels in Nicaraguan waters between 29 July and 14 September 1912.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
 
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Civil War Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  27 June 1908 for service ashore or aboard designated vessels between 15 April 1861 and 6 November 1865.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Merchant Marine Pacific War Zone Medal

 

Authorized  30 May 1988 to suppliment the Merchant Marine Pacific War Zone Bar authorized 10 May 1943 for any member of the Merchant Marine who served in the designated area (North and South Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean east of 80E) between 7 December 1941 and November 8 1946.

Mexican Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

Originally authorized 11 February 1918 for award to officers and enlisted men who served ashore during the Vera Cruz expedition between 21 – 23 April 1914. Eligibility was quickly expanded to include personnel serving aboard 121 specific ships during specified periods from 21 April to 26 November 1914 and from 14 March 1916 to 7 February 1917. Navy and Marine Corps personnel who served in engagements with hostile Mexican forces outside those specific time periods were also eligible for award of the Mexican Service Medal. In all, about 2,500 Marine Corps personnel were awarded the Mexican Service Medal with the ‘United States Marine Corps’ reverse.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Mannufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Cuban Pacification Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  13 August 1909 for service ashore in Cuba or on 24 designated vessels between 12 September 1906 and 1 April 1909.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unhallmarked. Unnumbered.

Philippine Congressional Service Medal

 

 

Authorized 29 June 1906 for those in the War with Spain who served beyond the date on which they were entitled to discharge to help suppress the Philippine Insurrection.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Merchant Marine WWII Victory Medal

 

Authorized  8 August 1946 and awarded for at least 30 days service on any US flagged vessel between 7 December 1941 and September 3 1945.

Second Nicaraguan Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  8 November 1929 for service ashore in Nicaragua or on designated vessels in Nicaraguan waters between 27 August 1926 and 2 January 1933.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

 

 

Philippine Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized 27 June 1908 for service on 64 designated vessels and 4 shore stations in the Philippine Islands between 4 February 1899 and 6 March 1906.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

Merchant Marine Med-Middle East War Zone Medal

 

Authorized  30 May 1988 to suppliment the Merchant Marine Med-Middle Eastern War Zone  Bar authorized 10 May 1943 for any member of the Merchant Marine who served in the designated area (Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean west of 80E) between 7 December 1941 and 8 November 1945.

Merchant Marine Defense Medal

 

Authorized  30 May 1988 to suppliment the Merchant Marine Defense Bar authorized 29 August 1944 for any member of the Merchant Marine who served at any time during the period 8 September 1939 and 6 December 1941.

econd Haitian Campaign Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized 29 December 1921 for service ashore in Haiti or aboard 24 designated vessels in Haitian waters between 1 April 1919 and 15 June 1920.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

 

Distinguished Flying Cross

 

 

This medal is awarded to any officer or enlisted man of the Armed Forces of the United States who shall have distinguished himself in actual combat in support of operations by "heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight, subsequent to 11 November 1918." The decoration may also be given for an act performed prior to 11 November 1918, when the individual has been recommended for, but has not received the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, or Distinguished Service Medal. The Distinguished Flying Cross, authorized by an Act of Congress of 2 July 1926 (amended by Executive Order 7786 on 8 January 1938), was awarded first to Captain Charles A. Lindbergh, of the U.S. Army Air Corps Reserve, for his solo flight of 3600 miles across the Atlantic in 1927. The first D.F.C. to be awarded to a Navy man was to Commander Richard E. Byrd, of the U.S. Navy Air Corps, on 9 May 1926, for his flight to and from the North Pole. Both these famous aviators also received the Medal of Honor with the Distinguished Flying Cross. The Aviatrix Amelia Earhart also received the Distinguished Flying Cross. Hers was the only such award, as an executive order on 1 March 1927, ruled that D.F.C. should not be conferred on civilians. During wartime, members of the Armed Forces of friendly foreign nations serving with the United States are eligible for the D.F.C. Subsequent awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross are indicated by oak-leaf clusters for Army and Air Force personnel and by additional award stars for members of the Naval services.

Prisoner of War Medal

 

This medal was authorized by Congress and signed into law by President Reagan in 1986. The medal may be awarded to any person who was a prisoner of war after 5 April 1917, (the date of the United States entry into World War One). It is awarded to any person who was taken prisoner or held captive while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States; while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing Armed Force; or while serving with friendly forces engaged in armed conflict against an opposing Armed Force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. The person's conduct, while in captivity, must have been honorable. This medal may be awarded posthumously to the surviving next of kin of the recipient.

Navy Good Conduct Medal

 

The second oldest award of the US Military, first authorized on 26 April 1869. Awarded for outstanding performance and conduct during three-year periods of continuous active enlisted service. Bronze stars denote subsequent awards. Present through-ring suspension ribbon style post-dates 1946.

   
       

Puerto Rico Occupation Medal

 

Authorized  28 June 1915 for service in Puerto Rico between 14 August and 10 December 1898.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum trade.

China Relief Expedition Medal - Navy

 

Authorized  27 June 1908 for service ashore in China or on 11 designated vessels between 24 May 1900 and 27 May 1901.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE. Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

China Service Medal - Marine Corps

 

Authorized  23 August 1940 for service in China between 7 July 1937 and 7 September 1939
OR
 in China, the Matsu Straits or Taiwan between 2 September 1945 and 1 April 1957.

Army Commendation Medal

 

Authorized  as a Service Ribbon 18 December 1945 to be awarded to junior soldiers for acts of achievement or meritorious service. Award to General Officers is specifically prohibited during peacetime. Medal pendant added in 1960

Humane Action Medal (Berlin Airlift)

 

warded to personnel who were assigned or attached to and present for duty for at least 120 days during the period 26 Jun 1948 and 30 Sep 1949, inclusive, with any of the units cited in Department of the Air Force general orders for participating in the Berlin Airlift or for direct support of the Berlin Airlift. The Medal for Humane Action may be awarded to foreign armed forces members and civilians (US and foreign) for meritorious participation in the Berlin Airlift. In each instance, however, an individual recommendation indicating meritorious participation is required. Persons whose lives were lost while participating in the Berlin Airlift, or as a direct result of participating in the Berlin Airlift, may be awarded the Medal for Humane Action without regard to the length of the service provided all other requirements are met.

     

111

Navy Cross

Once the Navy's second highest award, this medal was authorized by Congress on 4 February 1919 and was awarded to any person who while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Navy, distinguished himself by "exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility", after 6 April 1917. The Distinguished Service Medal was designed by Paul Manship and was awarded for combat or noncombat service. An earlier design, featuring an anchor with a setting sun in the background, and suspended by an eagle and a scroll with the dates: "1917-1918", was sometimes worn, but was never authorized for award. In 1942, The Navy Cross was given precedence over this medal.

112

 

Originally awarded for combat and noncombat heroism, although most of the early awards were issued for World War I service, others were presented for heroism in rescue operations involving submarine disasters. The medal was designed by James E. Fraser and was authorized by Congress on 4 February 1919. It was made a combat-only award in 1942 and was also given precedence over the Distinguished Service Medal at this time, making it the Navy's second highest decoration.

Legion of Merit - Officer

114

The first United States decoration created specifically for award to citizens of other nations. Established by an Act of Congress of 20 July 1942, amended by an executive order of 15 March 1955. Conferred on enlisted men of the Armed Forces of the United States and on nationals of other counties "who shall have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services" since 8 September1939, the date of the President's proclamation of the state of emergency that led to World War II. The Legion of Merit may be awarded for combat or noncombat services; in the case of American military personnel, if the award is for combat service it is shown by the wearing of a combat "V." The Legion of Merit was originally ranked directly below the Distinguished Service Medal in the Navy's pyramid of honor." This was changed by Navy directive number 49 of  28 January 1946, which placed the Legion of Merit immediately below the Silver Star, thus making it the Navy's fifth ranking decoration. The Legion of Merit is also the first award to have different degrees. If a holder of the Legion of Merit in one degree is subsequently given another such award, it is never in a degree lower than the original one. The degrees of Chief Commander and Commander are conferred on members of foreign governments only and are awarded for services comparable to those for which the Distinguished Service Medal is given to members of the United States Armed Forces.

The Silver Star Medal

 

had its beginning during World War I. An Act of Congress of 9 July 1918, authorized the wearing by Army personnel of a small silver star, 3/16 of an inch in diameter, upon the service ribbon of a campaign medal, to indicate "a citation for gallantry in action, published in orders issued from headquarters of a general officer, not warranting the award of a Medal of Honor or Distinguished Service Cross." Known in the Army as the "citation star" the award was made retroactive, so that all those cited for gallantry in action in previous campaigns, even as far back as the Spanish-American War, were eligible to wear it. It is estimated that more than 20,000 members of the Army received such citations before 1918. A similar device was authorized for Navy and Marine Corps personnel in 1920 which authorized a "special letter of commendation" to be awarded on the recommendation of the Board of Naval Award. Receipt of this special letter of commendation authorized its recipient to wear a small silver star on the ribbon of the Victory Medal. On 8 August 1932, the Silver Star was re-designed as a medal by an Act of Congress. The Silver Star is currently awarded by all branches of the Armed Forces to any person who, while serving in any capacity, is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force, or while serving with friendly forces against an opposing Armed Force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. Army announced that anyone who had previously earned a Citation Star could apply for the Silver Star Medal. Navy and Marine Corps personnel could only apply, if they were awarded a citations star by the Army. The status of the Silver Star was further clarified, when on 7 August 1942, Congress authorized the award of the Silver Star to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy since 6 December 1941, distinguished himself by gallantry and intrepidity in action, but not of a nature to justify the award of the Navy Cross. Four months later, on 15 December 1942, the decoration was extended to Army personnel for gallantry in action, but not of a degree to justify an award of the Distinguished Service Cross.”

 

 

World War I Victory Medal

 

Authorized  in 1918 for all Armed Forces personnel who served on active Federal duty between 5 April  1917 and 6 June 1920.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
 
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

DISTINGUISHED
UNIT CITATION
(DUC)

Legion of Merit - Legionnaire

 

 

The first United States decoration created specifically for award to citizens of other nations. Established by an Act of Congress of 20 July 1942, amended by an executive order of 15 March 1955. Conferred on enlisted men of the Armed Forces of the United States and on nationals of other counties "who shall have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services" since 8 September1939, the date of the President's proclamation of the state of emergency that led to World War II. The Legion of Merit may be awarded for combat or noncombat services; in the case of American military personnel, if the award is for combat service it is shown by the wearing of a combat "V." The Legion of Merit was originally ranked directly below the Distinguished Service Medal in the Navy's pyramid of honor." This was changed by Navy directive number 49 of  28 January 1946, which placed the Legion of Merit immediately below the Silver Star, thus making it the Navy's fifth ranking decoration. The Legion of Merit is also the first award to have different degrees. If a holder of the Legion of Merit in one degree is subsequently given another such award, it is never in a degree lower than the original one. The degrees of Chief Commander and Commander are conferred on members of foreign governments only and are awarded for services comparable to those for which the Distinguished Service Medal is given to members of the United States Armed Forces.

Merchant Marine Atlantic War Zone

 

Authorized  30 May 1988 to suppliment the Merchant Marine Atlantic War Zone Bar authorized 10 May 1943 for any member of the Merchant Marine who served in the designated area (North and South Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, Barents Sea and Greenland Sea) between 7 December 1941 and 8 November 1946.

Yangtze Service Medal - Navy

 

 

Authorized  28 April 1930 for service in Shanghai or the Yangtze River Valley of China between 3 September 1926 and 31 December 1932.
 
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.
 
Unnamed. Unnumbered. Unhallmarked.

World War I Occupation Medal

The Army of Occupation of Germany Medal was established on 21 November 1941 for members of the US military(or next of kin) who served in Germany or Austria-Hungary between 12 November 1918 and 11 July 1923. The obverse bears a profile of General Pershing with four stars overhead, and the inscription "General John J. Pershing". To the right of the portrait is a sheathed sword, pointing upward and surrounded by a laurel wreath, with the dates "1918" and "1923" on either side. The reverse bears an American eagle standing on Castle Ehrenbreitstein with the inscription "U. S. Army of Occupation of Germany" and three stars. The ribbon is black, flanked on either side by blue, white and red.

 

Spanish War Service Medal - Army

Authorized  9 July 1918 for service in the War with Spain between 20 April 1898 and 11 April 1899 for those not elligible to receive the Spanish Campaign Medal.
CURRENT GOVERNMENT RE-ISSUE.  Manufactured for the Military Stores and Museum Trade.