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Air Force Cross

 The Air Force Cross (AFC) is awarded for extraordinary heroism to military members who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Air Force, distinguish themselves by extraordinary heroism not justifying the award of the MOH under any of the following circumstances:
  1. While engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States.
  2. While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force.
  3. While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.

Description: The Air Force Cross consists of a bronze cross with an oxidized satin finish. Centered on the obverse of the cross is a gold-plated American bald eagle, wings displayed against a cloud formation (as used on the seal of the Air Force). This design is encircled by a laurel wreath in green enamel, edged in gold. The reverse of the cross is blank and suitable for engraving.

Category of Award: Acts of Heroism

Authorized: By Public Law 88-593 on 6 July 1960, later amended in section 8742 of Title 10 of the U.S. Code. This changed the designation from the U.S. Army Distinguished Service Cross to the Air Force Cross.

Device(s): Bronze and/or Silver Oak Leaf Cluster (if applicable)

Weighted Airman Promoted System Point Value: 11

References:
 AFI 36-2803, Dec 18, 2013, Change 1, 22 Jun 2015, The Air Force Military Awards & Decorations Program, Pages 71 and 72.
 DoD Manual 1348-33, Vol 1, Nov 23, 2010, Change 5, May 15, 2015, Manual of Military Decorations & Awards, Page 62.

Images: Air Force Cross medal image courtesy of DoD Publications, Ribbon Images by With Military Honors

Page updated October 11, 2016

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