What Are the Top 10 Military Medals?
Military medals carry stories of courage, sacrifice, and achievement. Whether it was earned in combat or presented for acts of service and heroism, these honors deserve to be preserved with dignity. Below are the top 10 US military medals, listed by ranking order of precedence, along with thoughtful guidance on how to best display them with respect.
1. Congressional Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States, presented to individuals who display acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty, often at extraordinary personal risk. For example, a service member repeatedly exposes themselves to enemy fire to rescue wounded comrades, continuing in their mission despite extreme personal danger. The President of the United States awards this achievement on behalf of Congress. Fewer than 4,000 Medals of Honor have been awarded since its creation across all military branches.
2. Service Crosses
Service crosses are the second-highest ranked of military decorations awarded for valor, given for extraordinary heroism in combat. For example, a service member leading an assault under enemy fire, holding critical ground, or rescuing fellow troops while facing opposition. The Distinguished Service Cross is awarded to the Army, the Navy Cross is awarded to the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, and the Air Force Cross is awarded to the Air Force and Space Force.
3. Distinguished Service Medal
The Distinguished Service Medal is awarded for exceptionally meritorious service in a duty of great responsibility. This medal is often presented to senior leaders whose decisions and leadership had a profound impact on national defense or US military operations. An example of this is when a commanding officer oversees a major operational command, leading complex missions and policy decisions that strengthen national defense efforts.
4. Silver Star
A Silver Star is awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States. It recognizes service members who demonstrated significant bravery and courage during combat operations. The Silver Star reflects decisive action taken in moments where lives were at stake, like a service member repeatedly advancing under fire to suppress enemy forces. It is a testament of battlefield courage and is often earned under dangerous conditions.
5. Defense Superior Service Medal
This medal recognizes superior meritorious service in a position of significant responsibility, specifically within the Department of Defense. It’s typically awarded for joint service roles that support national security at a strategic level, like when a senior officer leads a joint task force, coordinating branches to execute a successful operation.
6. Legion of Merit Medal
The Legion of Merit is awarded for meritorious conduct and outstanding service. It is often presented to service members nearing retirement or upon completion of a specific assignment. It reflects sustained professionalism and excellence, as well as years of service dedicated to the armed forces.
7. Distinguished Flying Cross
A Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement while specifically participating in aerial flight, like operating an aircraft in combat or mission-critical environments. This medal features a bronze cross and purple and white ribbon and is offered to service members from all military branches.
8. Soldier’s Medal
The Soldier’s Medal is awarded for acts of heroism not involving direct conflict with an enemy. It often recognizes lifesaving actions taken during training, emergencies, or humanitarian situations. For example, a soldier risks their life to rescue civilians from a collapsed structure or natural disaster. This medal features an octagonal bronze design with an eagle and stars displayed on a blue ribbon with white stripes.
9. Bronze Star Medal
A Bronze Star Medal is awarded for heroic achievement or service in a combat zone and is one of the most widely recognized medals. It features a bronze star hung on a red ribbon with blue and white stripes and can be awarded to any of the US Military branches. It may be given, for example, when a service member provides consistent leadership or technical expertise during combat operations, contributing to their mission’s success.
10. Purple Heart Medal
The Purple Heart is awarded to service members who are wounded or killed as a result of action against an opposing armed force. Unlike other military medals, it is not earned through nomination but through sacrifice. For example, when a service member is injured by enemy fire while engaged in combat operations. It features a purple heart-shaped design bearing the profile of President George Washington, hung on a purple ribbon with white edges.
Custom Frames for Military Achievements
Military medals are enduring symbols of sacrifice, service, and honor. Preserving them with care is a way to ensure their stories are not lost. At militaryframes.com, we proudly build handcrafted, museum-quality frames and display cases using premium materials. Made in the USA, each frame is designed to protect achievements while presenting them with dignity. Whether you’re honoring a career in the armed forces or remembering a loved one, framing military achievements pays a lasting tribute to their legacy.
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By Brynn Van Beek
