Military Awards FAQ | The Department of Awards

Military awards can seem complicated, especially if you’re researching a family member’s service, identifying old medals, or trying to understand how the military recognizes achievement. This guide answers many of the most common questions about medals, ribbons, badges, eligibility, military traditions, collecting, and veteran resources, with links to detailed articles for each topic.

New to military awards? Start with our Military Awards and Decorations: The Complete Guide to learn how medals, ribbons, badges, and decorations are organized and awarded.

Below you’ll find answers to the questions people ask most often, along with links to more detailed guides on each topic.

Military Awards Basics

What are military awards and decorations?

Military awards and decorations are official honors presented to members of the U.S. Armed Forces to recognize acts of valor, exceptional service, professional achievement, participation in military campaigns, and other significant contributions. Military awards include medals, ribbons, badges, and unit awards, each with specific eligibility requirements and an established order of precedence. Together, they recognize dedication, sacrifice, and service while preserving the traditions and history of the U.S. military.

Read the full guide: What Are Military Awards and Decorations?

What is the difference between military medals, ribbons, and decorations?

Military medals, ribbons, and decorations all recognize military service, but they are not the same. A medal is a physical award often worn on formal uniforms, while a ribbon is the smaller fabric version worn on everyday service uniforms. The term “decorations” is a broader category that includes medals awarded for heroism, achievement, or meritorious service, along with other officially authorized honors.

Read the full guide: Understanding Military Awards and Decorations

What types of military awards are there?

The U.S. military presents many types of awards to recognize different forms of service and achievement. These include valor awards for heroism in combat, service medals for participation in campaigns, achievement and commendation medals, good conduct awards, unit citations, badges, and ribbons. Each category has its own purpose, eligibility requirements, and place within the military’s official order of precedence.

Read the full guide: (Types of Military Awards and Decorations)

How are military awards earned?

Military awards are earned by meeting specific criteria established by each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Depending on the award, this may involve acts of heroism, exceptional job performance, participation in military operations, long and faithful service, or other notable accomplishments. Most awards require a formal recommendation, supporting documentation, and approval through the chain of command before they are officially presented.

Read the full guide: (How Military Awards and Decorations Are Earned)

What do military decorations represent?

Military decorations represent courage, dedication, sacrifice, leadership, and outstanding service to the nation. Each decoration tells a story about the recipient’s accomplishments or contributions, whether earned during combat or through exceptional performance in peacetime. These honors preserve military traditions while recognizing individuals whose actions have gone above and beyond normal expectations.

Read the full guide: (What Military Decorations Represent)

Why does the order of precedence matter?

The order of precedence determines how military awards, medals, and ribbons are worn on a service member’s uniform. Awards are arranged according to their importance, with the highest honors displayed first. This standardized system ensures consistency across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and reflects the significance of each award. Following the correct order is an important part of military tradition and uniform regulations.

Read the full guide: (Understanding Precedence: Why It Matters)

What are the most commonly awarded military medals?

Some of the most commonly awarded military medals recognize honorable service, participation in military operations, and personal achievement. Awards such as the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Army Commendation Medal are presented far more frequently than rare valor awards like the Medal of Honor. Each medal recognizes a different type of contribution to military service.

Read the full guide: (Commonly Awarded Medals and Their Meanings)

Why do people find military awards confusing?

Military awards can be confusing because there are hundreds of medals, ribbons, badges, and devices used across different branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Many awards look similar, have comparable names, or have changed over time. Understanding eligibility requirements, the order of precedence, and branch-specific traditions can also make the system seem complicated, especially for civilians and new service members.

Read the full guide: (Challenges in Understanding Military Awards)

How are military awards portrayed in movies and television?

Military awards are often featured in movies and television, but they are not always displayed accurately. Uniform errors, incorrect ribbon placement, and awards worn out of order are common mistakes. While many productions work with military advisors, others prioritize storytelling over accuracy. Learning about real military awards helps viewers recognize these differences and better appreciate authentic military service.

Read the full guide: (Military Awards in Everyday Life and Media)

Do different military branches have different award traditions?

Yes. While many military awards are shared across the U.S. Armed Forces, each branch also has its own traditions, decorations, and qualification standards. The Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard each maintain unique awards and may have different procedures for approving or presenting them. Understanding these traditions helps explain why awards can vary between branches.

Read the full guide: (Branch-Specific Traditions)

What are foreign military decorations?

Foreign military decorations are awards presented by allied nations to members of the U.S. Armed Forces in recognition of service, cooperation, or achievement. U.S. service members may accept and wear certain foreign awards when they have been officially approved under military regulations. These decorations often recognize contributions to joint operations, international partnerships, or coalition missions.

Read the full guide: (Foreign Decorations and Joint Service Medals)

Military Medal Eligibility

Who qualifies for the Medal of Honor?
The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States. It is presented to service members who display extraordinary courage and self-sacrifice while risking their lives above and beyond the call of duty during combat against an enemy. Every nomination undergoes an extensive review process, making the Medal of Honor one of the rarest and most respected military awards.
Read the full guide: (Medal of Honor Eligibility Rules)
Who qualifies for the Purple Heart?
The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are wounded or killed as a direct result of enemy action. Unlike many military decorations, the Purple Heart is not awarded for recommendations or achievements but is based on meeting specific eligibility requirements. Medical documentation and official records are typically required before the award is approved.
Read the full guide: (Purple Heart Eligibility Rules)
What are the requirements for the Bronze Star Medal?
The Bronze Star Medal recognizes heroic or meritorious achievement or service performed in a combat zone. It may be awarded for acts of valor involving direct combat or for exceptionally meritorious service that supports military operations. The specific requirements depend on the circumstances of the service and must be supported through the official military awards process.
Read the full guide: (Bronze Star Medal Requirements Explained)
Who qualifies for the National Defense Service Medal?
The National Defense Service Medal is awarded to military personnel who serve honorably during designated periods of national emergency or armed conflict. Unlike combat awards, eligibility is generally based on honorable active-duty service during qualifying dates established by the Department of Defense. Millions of service members have received this medal since it was first authorized.
Read the full guide: (National Defense Service Medal Explained)
What are the Good Conduct Medal requirements?
The Good Conduct Medal recognizes enlisted service members who demonstrate honorable and faithful service over a specified period without disciplinary action. Although the award exists across multiple military branches, each branch has its own eligibility rules, qualifying service periods, and approval procedures. Good conduct, professionalism, and adherence to military standards are key requirements.
Read the full guide: (Good Conduct Medal Requirements by Branch)
What is the difference between the Army Achievement Medal and Army Commendation Medal?
The Army Achievement Medal and Army Commendation Medal both recognize outstanding service and accomplishment, but they differ in the level of achievement being recognized. The Army Achievement Medal is generally awarded for noteworthy accomplishments at a local level, while the Army Commendation Medal recognizes a higher degree of meritorious service or achievement. Both are important honors within the Army awards system.
Read the full guide: (Army Commendation Medal vs Achievement Medal)
Is the Combat Action Ribbon better than the Combat Infantryman Badge?
The Combat Action Ribbon and Combat Infantryman Badge recognize different types of combat service and are awarded by different military branches. The Combat Infantryman Badge is awarded to qualifying Army infantry personnel who actively engage in ground combat, while the Combat Action Ribbon recognizes eligible Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard personnel who participate in combat. Neither award is considered “better”—each honors combat service within its respective branch.
Read the full guide: (Combat Action Ribbon vs Combat Infantryman Badge)

Collecting & Identification

How can I identify old military medals?
Identifying old military medals starts by examining the medal’s design, ribbon colors, engravings, and any markings on the back. Comparing these details with official military award references can help determine the medal’s name, branch of service, and approximate time period. If the medal is part of a larger collection, accompanying documents or photographs may also provide valuable clues.
Read the full guide: (Military Medals Found at Home)
How do I identify WWII medals by ribbon colors?
Many World War II military medals can be identified by the unique color patterns on their ribbons. Each ribbon uses a specific combination of colors that represents a particular award or campaign. By matching the ribbon to official military references, collectors and families can often determine which medal it represents and learn more about the veteran’s service.
Read the full guide: (How to Identify WWII Medals by Ribbon Colors)
How much are old military medals worth?
The value of old military medals depends on several factors, including rarity, condition, historical significance, documentation, and whether the medal can be linked to a specific veteran. While some medals have modest collector value, others associated with notable acts of heroism or complete documented groupings may be worth considerably more. Sentimental and historical value often exceeds market price.
Read the full guide: (How to Value Old Military Medals)
Why are many military medals unnamed?
Many U.S. military medals were issued without the recipient’s name engraved on them, especially during large conflicts when awards were produced in high volumes. This practice allowed medals to be awarded more efficiently and made replacement medals easier to issue. As a result, identifying the original recipient often requires supporting documents, photographs, or military service records.
Read the full guide: (Why Military Medals Are Unnamed)
How can I find out who a military medal belonged to?
Finding the original owner of a military medal may involve reviewing military service records, award certificates, photographs, family documents, or engravings on the medal itself. Serial numbers, when present, can also help identify certain awards. Combining these resources with official military archives often provides the best chance of discovering the medal’s history.
Read the full guide: (How to Find Out Who a Medal Belonged To)
Are replica military medals legal?
Yes. Replica military medals are generally legal to buy, sell, own, and display in the United States. Many veterans purchase replacement medals for display, while collectors use replicas to complete collections or educational exhibits. However, using replica medals to falsely claim military service, honors, or benefits may violate federal law under the Stolen Valor Act.
Read the full guide: (Are Replica Military Medals Legal?)
What should I do if I find military medals in my home or attic?
If you discover military medals in your home, attic, or among a family member’s belongings, avoid throwing them away or attempting to clean them aggressively. Instead, identify the awards, look for related military records or photographs, and try to determine who they belonged to. Even if their monetary value is limited, these medals often have significant historical and sentimental importance for the veteran’s family.
Read the full guide: (Military Medals Found at Home)

Veterans & Families

Can family members inherit military medals?
Yes. Military medals and decorations may be passed down to family members as treasured keepsakes that honor a veteran’s service and sacrifice. Although the medals themselves can be inherited, the official recognition always belongs to the service member who earned them. Many families preserve military awards in shadow boxes, display cases, or family collections to ensure their history is remembered for future generations.
Read the full guide: (Can Family Members Inherit Military Medals?)
What should I do with a veteran’s medals after they pass away?
After a veteran passes away, their medals can be carefully preserved, displayed, or passed on to family members. Many families choose to create a shadow box that includes medals, ribbons, photographs, and other military memorabilia as a lasting tribute. You may also consider requesting replacement medals if items are missing or donating duplicate awards to museums or historical organizations.
Read the full guide: (What to Do With a Veteran’s Medals After Death)
Why is the American flag placed on a veteran’s casket?
The American flag is draped over the casket of eligible veterans as a symbol of honor, gratitude, and recognition for their military service. During the funeral ceremony, the flag represents the nation’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by the veteran. After the service, the folded flag is traditionally presented to the next of kin as a lasting remembrance of their loved one’s service.
Read the full guide: (Why Is the American Flag Placed on a Casket?)
What is the history of military shadow boxes?
Military shadow boxes have become a respected tradition for preserving a veteran’s medals, ribbons, badges, rank insignia, photographs, and other meaningful memorabilia. These display cases tell the story of a military career while protecting valuable items from damage. Many veterans receive a shadow box at retirement, while families often create one to honor a loved one’s legacy after their passing.
Read the full guide: The History and Tradition of Shadow Boxes
Can civilians receive military medals?
Although most military medals are reserved for members of the U.S. Armed Forces, certain awards may also be presented to civilians who provide exceptional service in support of the military. These civilian honors are relatively rare and have specific eligibility requirements. Civilians may also legally own, collect, and display military medals, even if they did not personally earn them.
Read the full guide: Can Civilians Receive Military Medals?

Laws & Regulations

What is the Stolen Valor Act?
The Stolen Valor Act is a federal law that makes it illegal for someone to fraudulently claim they received certain military awards or decorations in order to obtain money, property, employment, or other tangible benefits. The law is designed to protect the integrity of military honors while respecting free speech rights. Simply making a false claim is generally not enough—the fraud must be connected to obtaining a benefit.
Read the full guide: (Stolen Valor Act Explained Simply)
Is it illegal to wear military medals you didn’t earn?
It depends on the circumstances. Wearing military medals as part of a theatrical production, historical reenactment, museum display, or personal collection is generally legal. However, falsely wearing unearned military awards to deceive others or gain financial or personal benefits may violate the Stolen Valor Act or other applicable laws. Understanding the difference between lawful display and fraudulent representation is important.
Read the full guide: (Stolen Valor Act Explained Simply)
Can civilians legally own military medals?
Yes. Civilians can legally own, inherit, purchase, and collect most military medals and decorations in the United States. Many medals become family heirlooms or are preserved by collectors and museums to honor military history. Owning a military medal is generally legal, but falsely claiming to have earned it or using it to commit fraud may have legal consequences.
Read the full guide: (Can Civilians Receive Military Medals?)
Are replica military medals legal to buy and sell?
Yes. Replica military medals are generally legal to manufacture, buy, sell, and own. They are commonly used by veterans as replacement awards, by collectors, for educational displays, and in film or theatrical productions. Problems arise only when replica medals are used to falsely represent military service or to obtain benefits through deception.
Read the full guide: (Are Replica Military Medals Legal?)

Gifts & Displays

What are the best military gifts for veterans?
The best military gifts for veterans are those that recognize their service and preserve meaningful memories. Popular options include custom shadow boxes, challenge coin displays, engraved plaques, replacement medals, personalized flags, military artwork, and books about military history. A thoughtful gift reflects the veteran’s branch of service, career, or significant achievements, making it both personal and lasting.
Read the full guide: (Best Military Gifts for Veterans)
What are good military medal gift ideas for families?
Military medal gifts can help families honor a veteran’s service while preserving an important part of their history. Framed medal displays, engraved shadow boxes, custom nameplates, display cases, and professionally mounted award collections are popular choices. Many families also include photographs, service records, rank insignia, and military patches to create a meaningful tribute that can be passed down through future generations.
Read the full guide: (Military Medal Gift Ideas for Families)
What are the best ways to display military medals?
Military medals can be displayed in several ways, depending on your goals and available space. Shadow boxes remain one of the most popular options because they protect medals while allowing room for ribbons, badges, photographs, and other memorabilia. Display cases, wall frames, and custom cabinets are also excellent choices for preserving awards while showcasing a veteran’s military service.
Read the full guide: (Custom Engraved Medal Display Ideas)
How can I create a military retirement medal display?
Creating a military retirement medal display begins by gathering the veteran’s medals, ribbons, badges, rank insignia, photographs, and other meaningful items. Arrange the awards according to the official order of precedence and choose a quality shadow box or display case that provides long-term protection. Adding a nameplate, service dates, unit insignia, or a retirement certificate can make the display even more meaningful.
Read the full guide: (Military Retirement Medal Display Ideas)
What military memorabilia is worth collecting?
Military memorabilia includes a wide range of collectible items, such as medals, ribbons, uniforms, patches, insignia, challenge coins, photographs, documents, and equipment. Items with documented history, original condition, and verified provenance are often the most desirable to collectors. Beyond their monetary value, many pieces are treasured because they preserve the stories and sacrifices of those who served.
Read the full guide: (Best Military Memorabilia for Collectors)

Continue Learning About Military Awards

Whether you’re researching a family member’s service, identifying military medals, or learning about award eligibility, our Military Awards and Decorations: The Complete Guide brings everything together in one place. It includes detailed articles on medals, ribbons, badges, unit awards, military traditions, collecting, and resources for veterans and their families.

Explore the complete Military Awards and Decorations guide →