Air Force Ribbons and Medals

Air Force Ribbons and Medals Air Force Ribbons and Medals Like all branches of the U.S. military, the Air Force uses medals and ribbons to recognize airmen and women who have performed bravely both in combat and non-combat situations, as well as those wounded or killed in battle. Most of the Air Force medals have counterparts in the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. Here are some of the best-known medals awarded by the Air Force, listed in no particular order. Air Force  Medal of Honor   The highest honor for heroism, the Air Force Medal of Honor is a gold five-pointed star, one point down, inside a wreath of green laurel. Each point is tipped with trefoils and includes within the background a crown of laurel and oak. An annulet of 34 stars, representing the head of the Statue of Liberty, is centered on the star. The star is suspended from a bar and bears the inscription VALOR above a rendering of the USAF coat of arms thunderbolt. Air Force Cross This is the Air Force version of the Armys Distinguished Service Cross, and the Navy and Marine Corps Navy Cross. This is given for extraordinary heroism for an action against an enemy of the United States, or while serving in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force. Its awarded in situations where the actions dont quite justify the Medal of Honor. Distinguished Service Medal Awarded to general officers for exceptionally meritorious service to the government, in combat or noncombat situations.   Air Force Silver Star The Silver Star is awarded for acts of heroism or valor over a short period, such as a battle that lasts more than a day. Air Force pilots may receive the Silver Star after five or more combat situation confirmed kills (also known as an ace), in situations where he or she has risked their life numerous times. Bronze Star Given for heroic or meritorious achievement or service in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, not involving aerial flight. Purple Heart All branches of the American military have a medal for servicemen and women wounded or killed in action. The Purple Heart has a profile of George Washington, who created the award, originally called the Badge of Military Merit. It was renamed the Purple Heart since the color purple symbolizes bravery and courage. Defense Superior Service Medal Recognizes service in a position of great responsibility in a joint activity. This medal is usually awarded to senior officers such as generals and colonels (which makes sense given its description). Other Air Force medals and awards of note include: Legion of Merit: Designed to be given to the citizens of other nations as well as American military personnel.Distinguished Flying Cross: Awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement while in an aerial flight.Airmans Medal: Given for heroic acts not involving actual combat.Defense Meritorious Service Medal: Recognizes noncombat meritorious service in a joint assignment.Meritorious Service Medal: For outstanding noncombat meritorious achievement or service.Air Medal: For single acts of heroism or meritorious achievements in aerial flight. Aerial Achievement MedalJoint Service Commendation MedalAir Force Achievement MedalPresidential Unit CitationJoint Meritorious Service AwardAir Force Outstanding Unit AwardAir Force Organizational Excellence AwardPrisoner of War MedalCombat Readiness MedalAir Force Good Conduct MedalGood Conduct Medal: Given to soldiers who display exemplary conduct, efficiency and fidelity in active duty.Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service MedalOutstanding Airman of the YearAir Force Recognition RibbonAmerican Defense Service Medal American Campaign MedalAsian-Pacific Campaign MedalEuro-African-Middle Eastern CampaignWorld War II Victory MedalArmy of Occupation MedalMedal for Humane ActionNational Defense Service Medal: For honorable active service during the Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, or War on Terrorism, including Reserve members ordered to active duty.Korea Service MedalAntarctica Service MedalArmed Forces Expeditionary MedalVietnam Service MedalHumanitarian Service MedalMilitary Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal Air Force Overseas Ribbon ShortAir Force Overseas Ribbon LongAir Force Longevity Service Award RibbonUSAF Basic Military Training Instructor RibbonAir Force Recruiter RibbonArmed Forces Reserve MedalNCO PME Graduate RibbonBasic Military Training Honor Graduate RibbonSmall Arms Expert Marksmanship RibbonAir Force Training Ribbon