Earned, Not Decor..!!!
Military Medals is dedicated to the history, meaning, eligibility requirements, and identification of U.S. military medals and decorations. From valor awards and service medals to campaign decorations and achievement awards, this category provides detailed information to help readers understand the significance of military recognition across all branches of the armed forces.
Military medals are awarded to recognize bravery, achievement, service, sacrifice, leadership, and participation in military operations. Each medal has its own history, eligibility criteria, and place within the military awards system. Understanding these distinctions helps veterans, family members, collectors, historians, and researchers better appreciate the purpose and value of military decorations.
Within this category, you’ll find guides covering medal eligibility rules, award requirements, ribbon identification, medal comparisons, military decoration history, and explanations of some of the most recognized awards in U.S. military history. Articles also explore how medals are earned, what they represent, and how they contribute to preserving the legacy of military service.
Whether you’re researching a specific medal, identifying an award from a family collection, learning about military history, or seeking information about military honors, this category serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding military medals and the stories they represent.
Achievement medals recognize military personnel for outstanding professional performance, noteworthy accomplishments, and meritorious service that exceeds normal expectations. While they are generally awarded for achievements that do not rise to the level of higher commendation or meritorious service medals, they represent an important form of recognition throughout the U.S. Armed Forces. Each branch of the … Read more
The Humanitarian Service Medal (HSM) recognizes members of the United States Armed Forces who directly participate in significant humanitarian operations. Unlike combat decorations, this medal honors military personnel whose service provides lifesaving assistance and relief to people affected by natural disasters, humanitarian crises, or other emergencies. Established in 1977, the Humanitarian Service Medal highlights the … Read more
The Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM) recognizes members of the United States Armed Forces who participate in significant U.S. military operations that do not involve foreign armed opposition or imminent hostile action. Although these operations are not considered combat missions, they often require extensive planning, coordination, and sustained military support in challenging environments. Established in … Read more
Military medals are treasured for their historical significance, but many people also wonder what they are worth. Whether you inherited a collection, discovered medals in an estate, or are considering buying or selling military decorations, understanding military medal values is essential. The value of a military medal depends on much more than its age. Rarity, … Read more
Military award numerals are small metal devices attached to certain U.S. military medals and ribbons to show the number of times a service member has earned a particular award or completed qualifying service. Instead of wearing multiple copies of the same medal, numerals provide a simple and standardized way to display repeated recognition. Although they … Read more
The Defense Meritorious Service Medal (DMSM) is one of the United States Department of Defense’s highest awards for non-combat achievement. It recognizes members of the U.S. Armed Forces who perform exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement while serving in a joint military assignment. Unlike service-specific decorations, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal honors individuals whose contributions … Read more
The Legion of Merit is one of the United States military’s highest decorations awarded for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements. Unlike many military awards that recognize acts of valor in combat, the Legion of Merit honors sustained excellence in leadership, command, and service that significantly benefits the U.S. Armed … Read more
The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) is one of the United States military’s most prestigious decorations for heroism and extraordinary achievement during aerial flight. Awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces, the medal recognizes pilots, aircrew members, and others whose exceptional actions in the air demonstrate courage, skill, and dedication beyond what is normally expected. … Read more
The Silver Star Medal is one of the most respected military decorations awarded by the United States Armed Forces. It recognizes extraordinary acts of heroism performed during combat against an enemy. As the nation’s third-highest decoration for valor in combat, the Silver Star represents exceptional courage, selfless service, and unwavering dedication under the most dangerous … Read more
The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (NAM) is a personal military decoration awarded by the Department of the Navy to recognize outstanding achievement or meritorious service. Presented to members of the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps, the medal honors individuals whose performance exceeds normal expectations but does not meet the … Read more