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Why was the Army Commendation Medal created?

The Army created this award on December 18, 1945, near the end of World War II. Leaders wanted a way to honor soldiers who did excellent work that did not qualify for the Bronze Star Medal. It recognizes brave acts or great service for the country. It has been given to soldiers in many wars, including the wars in Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq.

Was it always a medal?

At first, it was only a simple fabric ribbon that soldiers wore on their uniforms. In 1949, the Army decided to make a real metal version of the award. They created a bronze pendant that hangs from the green and white ribbon. In 1960, the name was officially changed to the Army Commendation Medal.

What shape is the medal?

The medal is shaped like a hexagon, which means it has six flat sides. On the front, you can see a picture of an American bald eagle. The eagle is holding three arrows in its sharp claws. It is a symbol of strength and is a very respected award in the Army.

Can it be awarded for combat bravery?

Yes, soldiers can receive this medal for showing courage during a fight. If a soldier is brave in combat, they may get a special 'V' device to put on their ribbon. This 'V' stands for valor, which is another word for great bravery. It shows that the soldier acted with courage while under enemy fire.

What colors are on the ribbon?

The ribbon is mostly a bright shade of green. It has thin white stripes running along the sides. These colors are easy to spot on a soldier's uniform. It is worn below the Joint Service Commendation Medal and above the Army Achievement Medal.

Why was the Army Commendation Medal created?

The Army created this award on December 18, 1945, near the end of World War II. Leaders wanted a way to honor soldiers who did excellent work that did not qualify for the Bronze Star Medal. It recognizes brave acts or great service for the country. It has been given to soldiers in many wars, including the wars in Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq.

Was it always a medal?

At first, it was only a simple fabric ribbon that soldiers wore on their uniforms. In 1949, the Army decided to make a real metal version of the award. They created a bronze pendant that hangs from the green and white ribbon. In 1960, the name was officially changed to the Army Commendation Medal.

What shape is the medal?

The medal is shaped like a hexagon, which means it has six flat sides. On the front, you can see a picture of an American bald eagle. The eagle is holding three arrows in its sharp claws. It is a symbol of strength and is a very respected award in the Army.

Can it be awarded for combat bravery?

Yes, soldiers can receive this medal for showing courage during a fight. If a soldier is brave in combat, they may get a special 'V' device to put on their ribbon. This 'V' stands for valor, which is another word for great bravery. It shows that the soldier acted with courage while under enemy fire.

What colors are on the ribbon?

The ribbon is mostly a bright shade of green. It has thin white stripes running along the sides. These colors are easy to spot on a soldier's uniform. It is worn below the Joint Service Commendation Medal and above the Army Achievement Medal.

Home Library United StatesArmy Commendation Medal

Merit decoration

Army Commendation Medal

A decoration awarded to soldiers for heroism, meritorious achievement, or exemplary service in the United States Army.

United States Established 1945 ArmyPrecedence: Worn below the Joint Service Commendation Medal and above the Army Achievement Medal.

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for heroism, meritorious achievement, or meritorious service while serving in any capacity with the United States Army.

Eligibility

Members of the United States Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Army below the grade of brigadier general.

Branch

Army

Precedence

Worn below the Joint Service Commendation Medal and above the Army Achievement Medal.

Army Commendation Medal, Merit decoration, United States medal

History

The Army Commendation Medal began as a ribbon authorized by the War Department on December 18, 1945. It was created near the end of World War II to reward soldiers who performed excellent service that did not quite qualify for the Bronze Star Medal.

In 1949, leaders approved a physical metal pendant to hang from the green and white ribbon. The design features a bronze hexagon displaying an American bald eagle grasping three arrows in its talons.

During its history, the award evolved to recognize both peaceful accomplishments and combat bravery. In 1960, the name was officially changed from the Commendation Ribbon to the Army Commendation Medal, and it remains a common and respected award throughout the Army today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

World War II Korean 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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