Hexagonal bronze medal with laterally-pierced loop for ribbon suspension; the face with an American bald eagle, its wings spread, perched on the U.S. Air Force coat of arms, a stylised cloud beyond; the reverse inscribed ‘FOR / MILITARY / MERIT’, the word ‘military’ arched, above a rectangular plaque; on original ribbon with bar brooch mounted for wear and with maker’s mark ‘GRACO-GI’. The Medal was instituted on 24 March 1958, before which qualifying personnel were awarded the Army Commendation Medal. The medal is awarded to ‘members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not of a sufficient nature to justify a higher award’.
|