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What is the Air Force Commendation Medal?

This award honors members of the United States Air Force and Space Force for doing a great job. It is given to people who show special skill, hard work, or bravery while doing their military duties. Most people who receive it are below the rank of colonel. It recognizes those who go above and beyond what is expected of them in their daily service.

When was this medal created?

The Air Force Commendation Medal was officially started on March 24, 1958. Before this date, Air Force members were given an Army award for their good work. The Air Force wanted its own special medal to build its own identity. This allowed the branch to honor its own people for their unique service.

Can this medal be given for bravery?

Yes, this medal is given for acts of courage during military service. If a person shows bravery in direct combat, they might get a special 'V' device on their ribbon. This 'V' stands for valor, which is another word for being very brave in battle. It marks the medal as a symbol of someone who stayed calm while facing danger.

What does the medal look like?

The medal is made of bronze and is shaped like a shield. On the front, it shows the official Air Force coat of arms. This design includes a proud American bald eagle and a shield that features a winged thunderbolt. It is a very recognizable award that represents the strength and spirit of the Air Force.

Can members of other branches earn it?

Yes, members of other military branches can earn this award if they are working with the Air Force. For example, soldiers, sailors, or Marines who are helping on an Air Force mission may be eligible. This happens when their work is very helpful or outstanding while serving alongside Air Force units. It helps show that many different teams work together to get the job done.

What is the Air Force Commendation Medal?

This award honors members of the United States Air Force and Space Force for doing a great job. It is given to people who show special skill, hard work, or bravery while doing their military duties. Most people who receive it are below the rank of colonel. It recognizes those who go above and beyond what is expected of them in their daily service.

When was this medal created?

The Air Force Commendation Medal was officially started on March 24, 1958. Before this date, Air Force members were given an Army award for their good work. The Air Force wanted its own special medal to build its own identity. This allowed the branch to honor its own people for their unique service.

Can this medal be given for bravery?

Yes, this medal is given for acts of courage during military service. If a person shows bravery in direct combat, they might get a special 'V' device on their ribbon. This 'V' stands for valor, which is another word for being very brave in battle. It marks the medal as a symbol of someone who stayed calm while facing danger.

What does the medal look like?

The medal is made of bronze and is shaped like a shield. On the front, it shows the official Air Force coat of arms. This design includes a proud American bald eagle and a shield that features a winged thunderbolt. It is a very recognizable award that represents the strength and spirit of the Air Force.

Can members of other branches earn it?

Yes, members of other military branches can earn this award if they are working with the Air Force. For example, soldiers, sailors, or Marines who are helping on an Air Force mission may be eligible. This happens when their work is very helpful or outstanding while serving alongside Air Force units. It helps show that many different teams work together to get the job done.

Home Library United StatesAir Force Commendation Medal

Merit decoration

Air Force Commendation Medal

A mid-level military award honoring airmen for meritorious achievement, bravery, or outstanding service.

United States Established 1958 Air ForcePrecedence: Worn below the Joint Service Commendation Medal and above the Air and Space Achievement Medal.

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded to service members who distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement, heroism, or meritorious service.

Eligibility

Members of the United States Air Force and Space Force, or other branches serving with them, usually in grades below colonel.

Branch

Air Force

Precedence

Worn below the Joint Service Commendation Medal and above the Air and Space Achievement Medal.

Air Force Commendation Medal, Merit decoration, United States medal

History

The Air Force Commendation Medal was established by the Secretary of the Air Force on March 24, 1958. Before this date, members of the Air Force received the Army Commendation Ribbon when they performed helpful or noteworthy service.

The medal was designed to give the Air Force its own identity and honor members below the rank of general. The front shows the Air Force coat of arms, including the American bald eagle and a shield with a thunderbolt, surrounded by a decorative border.

Over the decades, the medal has been given for both peacetime achievements and combat support actions. Service members can receive special ribbon devices, such as the 'V' device for valor, to show that their actions took place in direct combat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

Cold War Vietnam War Gulf War War in AfghanistanIraq War

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Robert Worley, including Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Purple Heart, shown against a light United States flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

Vietnam

Air Force Distinguished Service Medal Silver Star Legion of Merit+5

Robert Worley

Who Was Major General Robert F. Worley and How Did He Serve in Vietnam?

Major General Robert F. Worley was a highly decorated Air Force pilot and commander who lost his life while serving in South Vietnam in 1968.

AmericanJuly 23, 1968

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Sources

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