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10 Second War Stories brings military history to life through stories, veteran profile, force profiles, and equipment guides across all nations and conflicts.

How many people received this medal?

More than twelve million Americans earned this medal for their service. This makes it one of the most common awards ever given by the United States military. It was created to honor the millions of everyday people who joined the fight to protect our freedom.

Did you have to fight overseas to get it?

No, you did not have to travel to a foreign country to earn this award. Anyone on active duty between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946, qualified for the medal. Even if a soldier stayed at a base inside the United States, they were still part of the important work that helped win the war.

What figure is shown on the front of the medal?

The front of the medal features Nike, who was the ancient Greek goddess of victory. She is shown standing tall while holding a broken sword in her hands. The broken sword is a special symbol that represents the end of the fighting and the return of peace to the world.

When was the medal established?

The United States Congress created this medal in 1945. It was made to say thank you to all the brave soldiers, sailors, Marines, and airmen at the end of the conflict. It became an official way for the whole nation to show its gratitude for the hard work of the military.

What colors make up the ribbon?

The ribbon is made with bright red, white, and blue stripes. It also features two rainbow patterns along the outer edges of the fabric. These colors were chosen to represent the new hope and peace that began after the fighting finally stopped in 1946.

How many people received this medal?

More than twelve million Americans earned this medal for their service. This makes it one of the most common awards ever given by the United States military. It was created to honor the millions of everyday people who joined the fight to protect our freedom.

Did you have to fight overseas to get it?

No, you did not have to travel to a foreign country to earn this award. Anyone on active duty between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946, qualified for the medal. Even if a soldier stayed at a base inside the United States, they were still part of the important work that helped win the war.

What figure is shown on the front of the medal?

The front of the medal features Nike, who was the ancient Greek goddess of victory. She is shown standing tall while holding a broken sword in her hands. The broken sword is a special symbol that represents the end of the fighting and the return of peace to the world.

When was the medal established?

The United States Congress created this medal in 1945. It was made to say thank you to all the brave soldiers, sailors, Marines, and airmen at the end of the conflict. It became an official way for the whole nation to show its gratitude for the hard work of the military.

What colors make up the ribbon?

The ribbon is made with bright red, white, and blue stripes. It also features two rainbow patterns along the outer edges of the fabric. These colors were chosen to represent the new hope and peace that began after the fighting finally stopped in 1946.

Home Library WorldwideWorld War II Victory Medal

Service medal

World War II Victory Medal

A service ribbon and medal awarded to all military personnel who served during the second World War.

Worldwide Established 1945 All servicesPrecedence: Service medals section, after specific theater campaign medals

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Active military service between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946.

Eligibility

Any member of the armed forces who served during the defined World War II period.

Branch

All services

Precedence

Service medals section, after specific theater campaign medals

World War II Victory Medal, Service medal, Worldwide medal

History

Congress established this medal in 1945 to honor all soldiers, sailors, Marines, and airmen who participated in World War II. It provided an official token of national gratitude to millions of citizens who answered the call of duty.

President Harry S. Truman later declared that the official war period ended on the last day of 1946. This meant anyone who served on active duty between late 1941 and December 1946 was entitled to wear the award.

More than twelve million Americans qualified for the medal, making it one of the most widely issued decorations in history. It remains an enduring symbol of what many historians call the greatest generation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

World War II

Veterans Who Received This Award

Vietnam

Silver Star Medal Vietnam Service Medal World War II Victory Medal

Colin Powell

Who Was Colin Powell?

A decorated soldier who rose to become Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Worldwide1968-11-16

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Sources

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