How2Day: List of Air Force Medals

Air Force pilots earn medals for their achievements Siri Stafford/Lifesize/Getty Images
Like all military branches, the United States Air Force rewards its members with medals. Each medal is unique in design and gives recognition for different accomplishments or feats. With so many types of medals, it may be difficult for civilians to recognize the differences, but to the Air Force pilot, these medals are both important and well-earned.

The Air Force Cross is awarded to pilots who show extreme heroism while serving in the Air Force during a military conflict. The medal is a bronze cross, embossed with an eagle surrounded by a green laurel. It is hung from a gray ribbon with red and white stripes on the sides.

The Air Force Medal of Honor is the highest level of medal awarded by the Air Force. It is awarded by the President of the United States for showing bravery and risking their lives in the face of the enemy. The medal is a five-pointed star with a bust of Minerva in the middle. Around her head are the words "United States of America." Above it is a gold bar with the word "Valor" where an eagle rests on top. The Air Force Medal of Honor is affixed to a blue collar with a silver stars on the material.

The Air Force Distinguished Service Medal is given to members of the Air Force who distinguish themselves in a service to the government, in wartime or during peace. The medal is a sunburst with a blue center, surrounded by 13 stars. It is affixed to a white ribbon with blue and gold stripes.

The Air Force Commendation Medal is given to servicemen under the rank of brigadier general who distinguish themselves by achievement or heroism. The medal comes in the form of a bronze hexagon with Air Force Coat of Arms embossed in the center. The words "For Military Merit" are stenciled on the back. The medal is affixed to a ribbon of gold and purple. While this medal is awarded for heroic acts during terrorism attacks, it is not given out during peacetime.

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