Air Medal Ribbon

Air Medal Award Ribbon

 Criteria: 

The Air Medal (AM) is bestowed upon military personnel in recognition of meritorious achievement during aerial flight, acknowledging either sustained acts of merit or heroism. Primarily intended for individuals on current crew member or non-crew member flying status engaging in regular and frequent aerial flights as part of their primary duties, the AM may also be granted to specific individuals with combat obligations necessitating frequent flying in roles beyond passenger status. Notably, those who contribute distinctly to operational land combat missions or the mission of the aircraft in flight are eligible.

Established on May 11, 1942, the Air Medal's retroactive awards date back to September 8, 1939. The U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps have two variations: "individual" for singular acts and "strike/flight" for sustained aerial flight operations. Bronze Strike/Flight numerals indicate "strike/flight" awards, and for "individual" AMs, the valor device may be authorized. In the U.S. Coast Guard, subsequent awards are denoted by gold and silver stars, with no additional devices authorized.

For the U.S. Army, the AM is marked with awarded numerals on both the medal and ribbon, while the U.S. Army and Air Force may also present the Air Medal with a Valor device for acts of heroism. The Air Force opts for oak leaf clusters to signify subsequent awards, omitting numerals.

• Official US Insignia Hallmarked and approved by the U.S. Institute of Heraldry 

MADE IN THE USA