Quick FAQ About Military Awards and Decorations
A lot of people wonder about the details behind military awards. Here are a few questions I hear all the time:
Question: Who decides who gets a military medal?
Answer: Usually, it’s someone in the recipient’s chain of command. The process starts with a nomination, followed by a careful look over and approval at different levels.
Question: Are all medals given for bravery?
Answer: Not all of them. Some are for bravery in combat, while others might be for long, faithful service, special skills, or just being part of a certain mission or operation.
Question: Can you earn the same award more than once?
Answer: Yes. If someone earns the same award more than once, it is marked with special devices, like clusters or stars, on the ribbon or medal.
Question: What’s the difference between a ribbon and a medal?
Answer: Most medals have a matching ribbon, which is a small fabric version. Service members wear ribbons for everyday uniform and save the medal itself for special events or dress uniforms.