Air Medal

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Air Medal

The Air Medal (AM) is awarded to any person serving in the U.S. Armed Forces who distinguishes, or has distinguished, himself or herself by heroic or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.

Criteria: The AM may be awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Armed Forces, subsequent to September 8, 1939, distinguishes himself or herself by meritorious achievement while participating in an aerial flight.

It may be awarded for combat or non-combat action in recognition of single acts of valor, heroism, or merit while participating in an aerial flight. Additionally, it may be conferred for sustained meritorious achievement (distinction) in the performance of duties involving aerial flight.

Description: The medal has a bronze compass rose displaying an eagle in flight bearing lightning flashes.
The ribbon is predominately blue with two orange-gold bands just inside the edges.

Category of Award: U.S. Military Personal Performance Award

Authorized: Executive Order 9158, May 11, 1942, as amended by Executive Order 9242, September 11, 1942

Device(s): Oak Leaf Cluster and V Device (if applicable)

References:
AR 600-8-22, Military Awards, Page 42 and 43.
AFI 36-2803, The Air Force Military Awards and Decorations Program, Pages 91 to 92.
SECNAVINST 1650.1H, Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual, Page 2-28 to 2-31.
COMDTINST M1650.25E, Coast Guard Military Medals and Awards Manual, Page 2-9.
DoD Manual 1348.33-M, Manual of Military Decorations and Awards, Page 104.
DoD Manual 1348.33, Volume 3, Manual of Military Decorations and Awards: DoD-Wide Performance and Valor Awards, Pages 24 to 26.