How to Replace Lost Military Medals
Losing military medals can be frustrating, especially when they represent years of honorable service and sacrifice. Fortunately, eligible veterans and, in many cases, their next of kin can request replacement medals from the appropriate military branch. Whether your medals were lost, stolen, damaged, or never received, the replacement process is straightforward once you know where to begin.
This guide explains who qualifies for replacement medals, what documents you’ll need, and how to submit your request.
Can Lost Military Medals Be Replaced?
Yes. The U.S. government allows eligible veterans to request official replacement medals for awards they earned while serving in the Armed Forces.
Replacement requests may include:
- Medals
- Ribbon bars
- Lapel pins
- Service ribbons
- Campaign medals
- Unit awards
- Qualification badges
- Certain military insignia
The awards must appear in the veteran’s official military records.
Who Can Request Replacement Medals?
Replacement medals may be requested by:
- Veterans
- Active-duty service members
- Retirees
- Surviving spouse
- Children
- Parents
- Siblings
- Legal next of kin
- Authorized representatives
Requirements vary slightly depending on the military branch.
Military Branches Covered
Replacement medals are available for veterans of the:
- U.S. Army
- U.S. Navy
- U.S. Marine Corps
- U.S. Air Force
- U.S. Coast Guard
- U.S. Space Force
Each branch processes its own requests through designated records offices.
What Documents Are Needed?
The more documentation you provide, the faster your request can often be verified.
Helpful documents include:
- DD Form 214
- Separation papers
- Retirement orders
- Award citations
- Military personnel records
- Deployment orders
- Service number or Social Security Number
- Proof of identity
- Proof of relationship (for family requests)
If you don’t have a DD-214, you may first need to request a copy of your military records.
How to Request Replacement Medals
The basic process includes:
Step 1: Gather Your Military Records
Locate your DD-214 or other discharge documents.
Step 2: Verify Your Awards
Review your discharge paperwork to confirm which medals you earned.
Step 3: Submit Your Request
Send your request to the records office responsible for your military branch.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing times vary depending on workload and record availability.
Is There a Cost?
For many veterans, the first replacement set of officially awarded military medals is provided at no cost.
Additional replacement requests or duplicate sets may require purchasing medals from authorized military suppliers.
Policies vary by service branch.
What If Awards Are Missing From My Records?
Occasionally, medals earned during service never appear on a veteran’s DD-214 or personnel file.
If this happens, you may need to request a correction of your military records before replacement medals can be issued.
Supporting evidence may include:
- Award orders
- Citations
- Unit records
- Deployment records
- Witness statements
- Official correspondence
Replacing Medals for Deceased Veterans
Family members often replace medals for display, memorials, or military funeral honors.
Eligible next of kin generally includes:
- Surviving spouse
- Oldest child
- Parent
- Sibling
Documentation proving the relationship may be required.
Can You Buy Replacement Medals?
Yes.
Military medals are available through authorized military insignia dealers.
These medals are intended for:
- Uniform replacement
- Display
- Shadow boxes
- Family keepsakes
- Educational collections
Purchasing a replacement medal does not create official entitlement. Only awards documented in military records may be worn as earned decorations.
Common Reasons for Replacement Requests
Veterans commonly replace medals because they were:
- Lost during a move
- Damaged over time
- Stolen
- Destroyed in a fire or flood
- Never issued after separation
- Needed for military funeral honors
- Used in a shadow box display
Tips for Faster Processing
To help avoid delays:
- Include complete identifying information.
- Provide a copy of your DD-214.
- List every medal you believe you earned.
- Include current mailing information.
- Submit copies rather than original documents whenever possible.
Frequently Requested Awards
Veterans often request replacements for:
- Purple Heart
- Bronze Star Medal
- Army Commendation Medal
- Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
- Air Medal
- Good Conduct Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
- Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
Why Military Medals Matter
Military awards preserve a permanent record of honorable service and sacrifice. Replacing missing medals ensures veterans and their families can properly recognize military accomplishments, display awards with pride, and preserve their history for future generations.
Conclusion
Replacing lost military medals is an important way to restore a veteran’s official recognition for honorable service. Whether your medals were misplaced, damaged, or never received, the process is generally straightforward when you have the proper documentation. By requesting official replacements and ensuring your military records are accurate, you can preserve a lasting record of your service for yourself and future generations.