Earned, Not Decor..!!!
Oak Leaf Clusters are small bronze or silver devices worn on U.S. military medals and service ribbons to indicate that the same award has been received more than once. Instead of issuing multiple medals for repeated recognition, the military uses these devices to show additional awards in a simple, standardized way. If you’ve ever noticed … Read more
Military award stars are small metal devices attached to medals and service ribbons to indicate additional awards or participation in multiple campaigns or operations. Although they are commonly called “stars,” their meaning depends on the type of medal and the military branch that authorizes their use. One of the most common misconceptions is confusing award … Read more
The V Device, often called the Valor Device, is a small bronze letter “V” worn on certain U.S. military medals and ribbons to signify that the award was earned for acts of heroism or valor during combat. It distinguishes awards received for courageous actions under enemy fire from those earned solely for meritorious service or … Read more
The Arrowhead Device is a military award device that recognizes a service member’s participation in a combat parachute jump, combat helicopter assault, combat glider landing, or amphibious assault landing. Unlike devices that indicate additional awards or acts of valor, the Arrowhead Device identifies direct participation in one of these hazardous assault operations. Although it is … 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 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
When identifying a World War II medal, the ribbon is often more important than the medal itself. Many WWII medals share similar shapes, sizes, and inscriptions, but ribbon colors and stripe patterns are usually unique to each award. This guide explains how to identify WWII medals by ribbon colors, even when the medal is unnamed, … Read more