Awards

The Distinguished Service Cross was established by President Woodrow Wilson on January 2, 1918. General Pershing, Commander-in-Chief of the Expeditionary Forces in France, had recommended that recognition other than the Medal of Honor, be authorized for the Armed Forces of the United States for service rendered, in like manner, to that awarded by the European Armies. The request for establishment of the medal was forwarded from the Secretary of War to the President in a letter dated December 28, 1917. The Act of Congress establishing this award (193-65th Congress) dated July 9, 1918 is contained in Title 10 United States Code (USC) 3742. The establishment of the Distinguished Service Cross was promulgated in War Department General Order No. 6, dated January 12, 1918.

The Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) is the second highest military decoration that can be awarded to a member of the United States Army (and previously, the United States Army Air Forces). It is awarded for extraordinary heroism:
While engaged in action against an enemy of the United States;
While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
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.
Actions that merit the Distinguished Service Cross must be of such a high degree that they are above those required for all other U.S. combat decorations but do not merit award of the Medal of Honor.

The Citation Star was established as a result of an Act of Congress on July 9, 1918 (65th Congress, Sess II, Chapter 143, page 873) and was promulgated in War Department Bulletin No. 43 dated 1918. It was retroactive to include those cited for gallantry in action in previous campaigns back to the Spanish-American War. Per letter from General Jervey, Office of the Chief of Staff, dated February 26, 1926, is quoted in part: The Secretary of War directs as follows - The following is the amended version of paragraph 187 of Army Regulation: "No more than one Medal of Honor or one Distinguished Service Cross or one Distinguished Service Medal shall be issued to any one person, but for each succeeding or act sufficient to justify the award of a Medal of Honor or Distinguished Service Cross or Distinguished Service Medal, respectively, a bronze oak leaf cluster, shall be issued in lieu thereof; and for each citation of an officer or enlisted man for gallantry in action, published in orders from headquarters of a force commanded by a general officer, not warranting the issue of a Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross or Distinguished Service Medal, he shall wear a silver star, 3/16 inch in diameter, as prescribed in Uniform Regulations." Army Regulation 600-40, paragraph 48, September 27, 1921, specified that the Citation Star would be worn above the clasp, on the ribbon of the service medal for the campaign for service in which the citations were given. On July 19, 1932, the Secretary of War approved the Silver Star medal to replace the Citation Star. This design placed the Citation Star on a bronze pendant suspended from the ribbon design. The star was no longer attached to a service or campaign ribbon. Authorization for the Silver Star was placed into law by an Act of Congress for the Navy on August 7, 1942 and an Act of Congress for the Army on December 15, 1942. The primary reason for congressional authorization was the desire to award the medal to civilians as well as the Army. The current statutory authorization for the Silver Star Medal is Title 10, United States Code, Section 3746.

The Silver Star is the third-highest military combat decoration that can be awarded to a member of the United States Armed Forces. It is awarded for gallantry in action:

While engaged in action against an enemy of the United States; While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or 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. Actions that merit the Silver Star must be of such a high degree that they are above those required for all other U.S. combat decorations but do not merit award of the meet Medal of Honor or the Distinguished Service Cross.

Awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight.

Recipient must distinguish themselves in support of operations by showing "great heroism or extraordinary action" in an aerial flight as Pilot or Crew. May be awarded for a single action or series of actions that go above and beyond the normal duties of an aviator.

The Soldier's Medal is awarded to any person while serving in any capacity with the Army of the United States distinguished himself or herself by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy.

Awarded to soldiers selected as Soldier of the Quarter.

The Soldier of the Quarter is selected by the Company Commander on a quarterly basis throughout the year. Typically the medal is given to an individual who has contributed a great amount during a given quarter. 

General George C. Marshall, in a memorandum to President Roosevelt dated February 3, 1944, wrote: "The fact that the ground troops, Infantry in particular, lead miserable lives of extreme discomfort and are the ones who must close in personal combat with the enemy, makes the maintenance of their morale of great importance. The award of the Air Medal have had an adverse reaction on the ground troops, particularly the Infantry Riflemen who are now suffering the heaviest losses, air or ground, in the Army, and enduring the greatest hardships." The Air Medal had been adopted two years earlier to raise airmen’s morale. President Roosevelt authorized the Bronze Star Medal by Executive Order 9419 dated 4 February 1944, retroactive to 7 December 1941. This authorization was announced in War Department Bulletin No. 3, dated 10 February 1944. The Executive Order was amended by President Kennedy, per Executive Order 11046 dated 24 August 1962, to expand the authorization to include those serving with friendly forces. As a result of a study conducted in 1947, the policy was implemented that authorized the retroactive award of the Bronze Star Medal to soldiers who had received the Combat Infantryman Badge or the Combat Medical Badge during World War II. The basis for doing this was that the badges were awarded only to soldiers who had borne the hardships which resulted in General Marshall’s support of the Bronze Star Medal. Both badges required a recommendation by the commander and a citation in orders.

The Bronze Star Medal may be awarded for meritorious achievement or meritorious service according to the following:

Awards may be made to recognize single acts of merit or meritorious service. The lesser degree than that required for the award of the Legion of Merit must nevertheless have been meritorious and accomplished with distinction.

Award may be made to each member of the Armed Forces of the United States who has been cited in orders or awarded a certificate for exemplary conduct in ground combat against an armed enemy. For this purpose, an award of the Combat Infantryman Badge or Combat Medical Badge is considered as a citation in orders.

The original Purple Heart, designated as the Badge of Military Merit, was established by General George Washington by order from his headquarters at Newburgh, New York, August 7, 1782. The writings of General Washington quoted in part: "The General ever desirous to cherish a virtuous ambition in his soldiers, as well as to foster and encourage every species of Military Merit, directs that whenever any singularly meritorious action is performed, the author of it shall be permitted to wear on his facings over the left breast, the figure of a heart in purple cloth or silk, edged with narrow lace or binding. Not only instances of unusual gallantry, but also of extraordinary fidelity and essential service in any way shall meet with a due reward". So far as the known surviving records show, this honor badge was granted to only three men, all of them noncommissioned officers: Sergeant Daniel Bissell of the 2d Connecticut Regiment of the Continental Line; Sergeant William Brown of the 5th Connecticut Regiment of the Continental Line, and Sergeant Elijah Churchill of the 2d Continental Dragoons, which was also a Connecticut Regiment. The original Purple Heart depicted on the first page is a copy of the badge awarded to Sergeant Elijah Churchill and is now owned by the New Windsor Cantonment, National Temple Hill Association, PO Box 525, Vails Gate, NY 12584. The only other known original badge is the badge awarded to Sergeant William Brown and is in the possession of The Society of the Cincinnati, New Hampshire Branch but differs in design by not having any lettering embroidered on the heart and the leaves are at the top only with a larger spray of leaves at the base. Subsequent to the Revolution, the Order of the Purple Heart had fallen into disuse and no further awards were made. By Order of the President of the United States, the Purple Heart was revived on the 200th Anniversary of George Washington's birth, out of respect to his memory and military achievements, by War Department General Orders No. 3, dated 22 February 1932. The criteria was announced in War Department Circular dated 22 February 1932 and authorized award to soldiers, upon their request, who had been awarded the Meritorious Service Citation Certificate or were authorized to wear wound chevrons subsequent to 5 April 1917. During the early period of World War II (7 Dec 41 to 22 Sep 43), the Purple Heart was awarded both for wounds received in action against the enemy and for meritorious performance of duty. With the establishment of the Legion of Merit, by an Act of Congress, the practice of awarding the Purple Heart for meritorious service was discontinued. By Executive Order 9277, dated 3 December 1942, the decoration was extended to be applicable to all services and the order required that regulations of the Services be uniform in application as far as practicable. This executive order also authorized award only for wounds received.

Awarded to soldiers who, while engaged in an official combat operation are wounded in combat and successfully finish the mission without being killed in action. This can only be awarded once per official Campaign. Record of survival must be submitted in award recommendation or award request forms with photographic evidence.

The Air Medal is awarded to anyone who distinguishes himself or herself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.

Awarded for performing outstanding flight-related duties while in a combat zone. Must be assigned an MOS such as Detachment Commander, Pilot, or Crew. May be awarded with a Combat "V" for Valor for an act of meritorious action or bravery against an armed enemy less than the criteria for the Distinguished Flying Cross. 

In a summary sheet, 5 November 1945, WDGAP, Personnel Division recommended that an Army Commendation Ribbon of distinctive design be established to recognize meritorious service in an area at a time for which the Bronze Star Medal may not be awarded. The recommendation was approved by the Secretary of War and the ribbon was established by War Department Circular 377, dated 18 December 1945. This circular authorized award to "members of the Armed Forces of the United States serving in any capacity with the Army for meritorious service rendered since 7 December 1941, not in sustained operational activities against an enemy nor in direct support of such operation, i.e., in areas and at times when the Bronze Star Medal may not be awarded because of its operational character". Authority to award the Commendation Ribbon was delegated to Major Generals or commanders of any command, force or installation normally commanded by Major Generals.

The Army Commendation Medal shall be awarded to soldiers for outstanding performance or achievement in a combat leadership role. Can be awarded for achievement in action in a competitive match below that required for a Bronze Star. In case of a combat award, the V device shall be attached.

The Good Conduct Medal was established by Executive Order 8809, dated 28 June 1941, and authorized the award for soldiers completing three years active service after that date. The criteria was amended by Executive Order 9323, dated 31 March 1943, to authorize award for three years service after 7 December 1941 or one year service while the United States is at war. Executive Order 10444, dated 10 April 1953, revised the criteria to authorize award for three years service after 27 August 1940; one year service after 7 December 1941 while the United States is at war; and award for the first award for service after 27 June 1950 upon termination of service, for periods less than three years, but more than one year. The medal was designed by Mr. Joseph Kiselewski and approved by the Secretary of War on 30 October 1942. The eagle, with wings spread, denotes vigilance and superiority. The horizontal sword denotes loyalty, and the book represents knowledge acquired and ability gained. On the reverse, the lone star denotes merit. The wreath of laurel and oak leaves denotes reward and strength. The second and subsequent awards are indicated by the wear of the clasp with loop on the ribbon. Bronze clasps indicate the second (two loops) through fifth award (five loops); silver clasps indicate sixth (one loop) through tenth award (five loops); and gold clasps indicate eleventh (one loop) through the fifteenth award (5 loops).

The Good Conduct Medal shall be awarded to enlisted soldiers for meeting a high standard of efficiency, loyalty and duty (3 months of consecutive service) in the performance of their squad or DMOS functions to a level below that required for the Army Commendation Medal.

The Distinguished Unit Citation was established as a result of Executive Order No. 9075, dated 26 February 1942. The Executive Order directed the Secretary of War to issue citations in the name of the President of the United States to Army units for outstanding performance of duty after 7 December 1941. The design submitted by the Office of the Quartermaster General was approved by the G1 on 30 May 1942.

The Distinguished Unit Citation shall be awarded to any unit of the 101st Airborne Division for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed (PvP) enemy by order of the commander.

The World War II Victory Medal is a service medal of the United States military which was established by an Act of Congress on 6 July 1945 (Public Law 135, 79th Congress) and promulgated by Section V, War Department Bulletin 12, 1945.

The World War II Victory Medal was first issued as a service ribbon referred to as the “Victory Ribbon.” The World War II Victory Medal was established by an Act of Congress on 6 July 1945 (Public Law 135, 79th Congress) and promulgated by Section V, War Department Bulletin 12, 1945. The medal was designed by Thomas H. Jones and approved by the Secretary of War on 5 February 1946. Consequently, it did not transition from a ribbon to a full medal until after World War II had ended.

The Congressional authorization for the medal specified that it was to be awarded to any member of the United States military, including members of the armed forces of the Government of the Philippine Islands, who served on active duty, or as a reservist, between 7 December 1941 and 31 December 1946

Any unit member having served with the 101st Airborne Division and completed all Operations that the 101st historically participated in will receive this medal. The required operations are:

• Operation Overlord
• Operation Market Garden
• Battle of the Bulge
• Invasion of Germany

Awards earned prior to 01NOV23 are not authorized for wear.

The European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal was established by EO 9265, announced in War Department Bulletin 56, 1942, as amended by EO 9706, 15 March 1947. It is awarded for service within the European- African-Middle Eastern Theater between 7 December 1941 and 8 November 1945 under any of the conditions as prescribed in this paragraph.

The boundaries of European-African-Middle Eastern Theater are as follows:

(1) The eastern boundary is coincident with the western boundary of the Asiatic-Pacific Theater (see para 5–14). (2) The western boundary is coincident with the eastern boundary of the American Theater (see para 5–15). c. One bronze service star is authorized for each campaign under the following conditions:

(2) Assigned or attached to, and present for duty with, a unit during the period in which it participated in combat. (2) Under orders in the combat zone and in addition meets any of the following requirements:

     (a) Awarded a combat decoration.

     (b) Furnished a certificate by a CG of a corps or higher unit or independent force that the Soldier actually participated in combat.

     (c) Served at a normal post of duty (as contrasted to occupying the status of an inspector, observer, or visitor). (d) Aboard a vessel other than in a passenger status and furnished a certificate by the home port commander of the vessel that the Soldier served in the combat zone.

(3) Was an evadee or escapee in the combat zone or recovered from a prisoner-of-war status in the combat zone during the time limitations of the campaign. Prisoners of war will not be accorded credit for the time spent in confinement or while otherwise in restraint under enemy control.

The arrowhead is authorized for wear on this medal to denote participation in a combat parachute jump, helicopter assault landing, combat glider landing, or amphibious assault landing, while assigned or attached as a member of an organized force carrying out an assigned tactical mission. 

Any unit member having served with the 101st Airborne Division in the European Theater of Operations or Mediterranean Theater of Operations, in which airborne forces participated, will receive this medal. 60% or more of all operations in a campaign must be attended to be eligible. Authorization for arrowheads occur from the following operations:

• Operation Overlord
• Operation Market Garden
• Operation Varsity
• Operation Torch
• Operation Husky

Additional non-airborne awards can be denoted by 5/16 inch bronze stars.

Awards earned prior to 01NOV23 are not authorized for wear.

The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was established by EO 9265 (War Department Bulletin 56, 6 November 1942), as amended by EO 9706, 15 March 1946. It is awarded for service with the Asiatic-Pacific Theater between 7 December 1941 and 2 March 1946 under any of the following conditions:

(1) On permanent assignment in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater.

(2) In a passenger status or on TDY for 30 consecutive days or 60 nonconsecutive days.

(3) In active combat against the enemy and was awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the CG of a corps or higher unit or independent force showing that the Soldier actually participated in combat.

Boundaries of Asiatic-Pacific Theater.

(1) The eastern boundary is coincident with the western boundary of the American Theater (see para 5–15). (2) The western boundary is from the North Pole south along the 60th meridian east longitude to its intersection with the east boundary of Iran, then south along the Iran boundary to the Gulf of Oman and the intersection of the 60th meridian east longitude, then south along the 60th meridian east longitude to the South Pole.

One bronze service star is authorized for each campaign under the conditions outlined in paragraph 5–12c (see para 6–8 for further information on the bronze service star).

The arrowhead is authorized for wear on this medal to denote participation in a combat parachute jump, helicopter assault landing, combat glider landing, or amphibious assault landing, while assigned or attached as a member of an organized force carrying out an assigned tactical mission. 

Any unit member having served with the 101st Airborne Division in the Pacific Theater of Operations of Operations will receive this medal. 60% or more of all operations in a campaign must be attended to be eligible. Authorization for arrowheads occur from the following operations:

• Operation Topside

Additional non-airborne awards can be denoted by 5/16 inch bronze stars.

Awards earned prior to 01NOV23 are not authorized for wear.

The 101st Airborne Division was awarded the Fourragère aux couleurs de la Croix de Guerre for service to France in World War II during the Battle of Normandy.

Awarded to those soldiers who have earned the Master Parachutist, Combat Infantryman 4 (or equivalent), and Expert Infantry Badges.

The Expert Infantryman Badge, or EIB, is a special skills badge of the United States Army. Although similar in name and appearance to the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB), it is a completely different award: while the CIB is awarded to infantrymen for participation in ground combat, the EIB is presented for completion of a course of testing designed to demonstrate proficiency in infantry skills. The EIB was first created in October 1943. Currently, it is awarded to U.S. Army personnel who hold infantry or special forces military occupational specialties. To be awarded the EIB, the soldier must complete a number of prerequisites and pass a battery of graded tests on basic infantry skills.

The Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) is a United States Army military award. The badge is awarded to infantrymen and Special Forces Soldiers in the rank of Colonel and below, who personally fought in active ground combat while assigned as members of either an infantry, Ranger or Special Forces unit, of brigade size or smaller, any time after 6 December 1941. The CIB and its non-combat contemporary, the Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB) were simultaneously created during World War II to enhance the morale and prestige of service in the infantry. Specifically, it recognizes the inherent sacrifices of all infantrymen, and that, in comparison to all other military occupational specialties, infantrymen face the greatest risk of being wounded or killed in action.

The Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) is a United States Army military award. The badge is awarded to infantrymen and Special Forces Soldiers in the rank of Colonel and below, who personally fought in active ground combat while assigned as members of either an infantry, Ranger or Special Forces unit, of brigade size or smaller, any time after 6 December 1941. The CIB and its non-combat contemporary, the Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB) were simultaneously created during World War II to enhance the morale and prestige of service in the infantry. Specifically, it recognizes the inherent sacrifices of all infantrymen, and that, in comparison to all other military occupational specialties, infantrymen face the greatest risk of being wounded or killed in action.

The Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) is a United States Army military award. The badge is awarded to infantrymen and Special Forces Soldiers in the rank of Colonel and below, who personally fought in active ground combat while assigned as members of either an infantry, Ranger or Special Forces unit, of brigade size or smaller, any time after 6 December 1941. The CIB and its non-combat contemporary, the Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB) were simultaneously created during World War II to enhance the morale and prestige of service in the infantry. Specifically, it recognizes the inherent sacrifices of all infantrymen, and that, in comparison to all other military occupational specialties, infantrymen face the greatest risk of being wounded or killed in action.

The Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) is a United States Army military award. The badge is awarded to infantrymen and Special Forces Soldiers in the rank of Colonel and below, who personally fought in active ground combat while assigned as members of either an infantry, Ranger or Special Forces unit, of brigade size or smaller, any time after 6 December 1941. The CIB and its non-combat contemporary, the Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB) were simultaneously created during World War II to enhance the morale and prestige of service in the infantry. Specifically, it recognizes the inherent sacrifices of all infantrymen, and that, in comparison to all other military occupational specialties, infantrymen face the greatest risk of being wounded or killed in action.

Since the Combat Infantryman Badge was introduced in 1943 followed by the Combat Medical Badge in 1945, other branches argued in favor of their own badges, but a War Department review board just after the war ruled these out. Unofficial combat badges for non-infantry soldiers were in some instances worn in violation of uniform regulations or included in personal award displays wherein the rifle and blue field of the CIB were replaced with the appropriate branch insignia and color. These unofficial combat badges began to appear shortly after the creation of the Combat Infantryman Badge and while the practice continued until the creation of an official non-infantry combat badge it never became widespread.

Since the Combat Infantryman Badge was introduced in 1943 followed by the Combat Medical Badge in 1945, other branches argued in favor of their own badges, but a War Department review board just after the war ruled these out. Unofficial combat badges for non-infantry soldiers were in some instances worn in violation of uniform regulations or included in personal award displays wherein the rifle and blue field of the CIB were replaced with the appropriate branch insignia and color. These unofficial combat badges began to appear shortly after the creation of the Combat Infantryman Badge and while the practice continued until the creation of an official non-infantry combat badge it never became widespread.

Since the Combat Infantryman Badge was introduced in 1943 followed by the Combat Medical Badge in 1945, other branches argued in favor of their own badges, but a War Department review board just after the war ruled these out. Unofficial combat badges for non-infantry soldiers were in some instances worn in violation of uniform regulations or included in personal award displays wherein the rifle and blue field of the CIB were replaced with the appropriate branch insignia and color. These unofficial combat badges began to appear shortly after the creation of the Combat Infantryman Badge and while the practice continued until the creation of an official non-infantry combat badge it never became widespread.

Since the Combat Infantryman Badge was introduced in 1943 followed by the Combat Medical Badge in 1945, other branches argued in favor of their own badges, but a War Department review board just after the war ruled these out. Unofficial combat badges for non-infantry soldiers were in some instances worn in violation of uniform regulations or included in personal award displays wherein the rifle and blue field of the CIB were replaced with the appropriate branch insignia and color. These unofficial combat badges began to appear shortly after the creation of the Combat Infantryman Badge and while the practice continued until the creation of an official non-infantry combat badge it never became widespread.

The Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB) is a United States Army decoration first created on June 18, 1965. This badge is the non-combat equivalent of the Combat Medical Badge (CMB) and is awarded to medical personnel of the US Military who successfully complete a set of qualification tests including both written and performance portions.

The Expert Field Medical Badge shall be awarded to soldiers who successfully complete the Expert Field Medical Course in the 101st Airborne Division.

Originally established as the Medical Badge, the Combat Medical Badge (CMB) was created by the War Department on 1 March 1945. It could be awarded to officers, warrant officers, and enlisted Soldier of the Medical Department assigned or attached to the medical detachment of infantry regiments, infantry battalions, and elements thereof designated as infantry in tables of organization or tables of organization and equipment. Its evolution stemmed from a requirement to recognize medical aid-men who shared the same hazards and hardships of ground combat on a daily basis with the infantry Soldier. Though established almost a year and a half after the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB), it could be awarded retroactively to 7 December 1941 to fully qualified personnel.

The Combat Medical Badge may be awarded to any soldier who having completed medical training, participates in active combat during an operational mission, while assigned to or filling a dedicated medical role (Aidman). Shall be awarded once per Campaign, up to 4 times. Subsequent awards are denoted by 1 silver star per additional award, attached to the four sides of the badge.

Originally established as the Medical Badge, the Combat Medical Badge (CMB) was created by the War Department on 1 March 1945. It could be awarded to officers, warrant officers, and enlisted Soldier of the Medical Department assigned or attached to the medical detachment of infantry regiments, infantry battalions, and elements thereof designated as infantry in tables of organization or tables of organization and equipment. Its evolution stemmed from a requirement to recognize medical aid-men who shared the same hazards and hardships of ground combat on a daily basis with the infantry Soldier. Though established almost a year and a half after the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB), it could be awarded retroactively to 7 December 1941 to fully qualified personnel.

The Combat Medical Badge may be awarded to any soldier who having completed medical training, participates in active combat during an operational mission, while assigned to or filling a dedicated medical role (Aidman). Shall be awarded once per Campaign, up to 4 times. Subsequent awards are denoted by 1 silver star per additional award, attached to the four sides of the badge.

Originally established as the Medical Badge, the Combat Medical Badge (CMB) was created by the War Department on 1 March 1945. It could be awarded to officers, warrant officers, and enlisted Soldier of the Medical Department assigned or attached to the medical detachment of infantry regiments, infantry battalions, and elements thereof designated as infantry in tables of organization or tables of organization and equipment. Its evolution stemmed from a requirement to recognize medical aid-men who shared the same hazards and hardships of ground combat on a daily basis with the infantry Soldier. Though established almost a year and a half after the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB), it could be awarded retroactively to 7 December 1941 to fully qualified personnel.

The Combat Medical Badge may be awarded to any soldier who having completed medical training, participates in active combat during an operational mission, while assigned to or filling a dedicated medical role (Aidman). Shall be awarded once per Campaign, up to 4 times. Subsequent awards are denoted by 1 silver star per additional award, attached to the four sides of the badge.

Originally established as the Medical Badge, the Combat Medical Badge (CMB) was created by the War Department on 1 March 1945. It could be awarded to officers, warrant officers, and enlisted Soldier of the Medical Department assigned or attached to the medical detachment of infantry regiments, infantry battalions, and elements thereof designated as infantry in tables of organization or tables of organization and equipment. Its evolution stemmed from a requirement to recognize medical aid-men who shared the same hazards and hardships of ground combat on a daily basis with the infantry Soldier. Though established almost a year and a half after the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB), it could be awarded retroactively to 7 December 1941 to fully qualified personnel.

The Combat Medical Badge may be awarded to any soldier who having completed medical training, participates in active combat during an operational mission, while assigned to or filling a dedicated medical role (Aidman). Shall be awarded once per Campaign, up to 4 times. Subsequent awards are denoted by 1 silver star per additional award, attached to the four sides of the badge.

The original Army Parachutist Badge was designed in 1941 by Captain (later Lieutenant General) William P. Yarborough and approved by the Department of the Army in March of that year. The Parachutist Badge replaced the "Parachutist Patch" which had previously worn as a large patch on the side of a paratrooper's garrison cap. Lieutenant General Yarborough also designed the Senior and Master Parachutist Badges and the addition of stars to portray the number of combat jumps.

Have met requirements and been awarded Senior Parachutist Badge.

Complete 10 additional (30 total) successful jumps between official Operations and Airborne School(s).

The original Army Parachutist Badge was designed in 1941 by Captain (later Lieutenant General) William P. Yarborough and approved by the Department of the Army in March of that year. The Parachutist Badge replaced the "Parachutist Patch" which had previously worn as a large patch on the side of a paratrooper's garrison cap. Lieutenant General Yarborough also designed the Senior and Master Parachutist Badges and the addition of stars to portray the number of combat jumps.

Completion of Parachute Jump Master School, and complete 15 successful jumps between official Operations and Airborne School(s).

The original Army Parachutist Badge was designed in 1941 by Captain (later Lieutenant General) William P. Yarborough and approved by the Department of the Army in March of that year. The Parachutist Badge replaced the "Parachutist Patch" which had previously worn as a large patch on the side of a paratrooper's garrison cap. Lieutenant General Yarborough also designed the Senior and Master Parachutist Badges and the addition of stars to portray the number of combat jumps.

The Basic Parachute Badge shall be awarded to soldiers who have successfully complete Airborne School. Once earned, additional awards of the Basic Parachute Badge shall be awarded to soldiers who successfully complete a combat jump during an official operation. These subsequent awards are denoted by stars attached to the badge, 1 bronze star per jump up to 4 total, at which point the 5th combat award is denoted by a single gold star.

If a soldier completes an airborne jump into a combat zone, they are authorized to wear a Combat Jump Device on their Parachutist Badge. The device consists of a star or arrangements of stars, indicating the number of combat jumps.

Successfully complete 5th combat jump during official  Deployments (Historical, World War II, 101st Airborne Division Jumps)

If a soldier completes an airborne jump into a combat zone, they are authorized to wear a Combat Jump Device on their Parachutist Badge. The device consists of a star or arrangements of stars, indicating the number of combat jumps.

Successfully complete 4th combat jump during official  Deployments (Historical, World War II, 101st Airborne Division Jumps)

If a soldier completes an airborne jump into a combat zone, they are authorized to wear a Combat Jump Device on their Parachutist Badge. The device consists of a star or arrangements of stars, indicating the number of combat jumps.

Successfully complete 3rd combat jump during official Deployments (Historical, World War II, 101st Airborne Division Jumps)

If a soldier completes an airborne jump into a combat zone, they are authorized to wear a Combat Jump Device on their Parachutist Badge. The device consists of a star or arrangements of stars, indicating the number of combat jumps.

Successfully complete 2nd combat jump during official Deployments (Historical, World War II, 101st Airborne Division Jumps)

If a soldier completes an airborne jump into a combat zone, they are authorized to wear a Combat Jump Device on their Parachutist Badge. The device consists of a star or arrangements of stars, indicating the number of combat jumps.

Successfully complete 1st combat jump during official Deployments (Historical, World War II, 101st Airborne Division Jumps)

Army Aviators who successfully perform 15 years on flight status qualify for the Master Aviator Badge.

Army Aviators with no less than 3 months time in grade at First Lieutenant qualify for the Master Aviator Badge.

Army Aviators who successfully perform 7 years on flight status qualify for the Senior Aviator Badge.

Army Aviators with no less than 3 months' time in grade at Flight Officer qualify for the Senior Aviator Badge.

The first United States Aviator Badges were issued to members of the Air Service during World War I. The badges were issued in three degrees: Observer (a "US" shield and one left-side wing), Junior Aviator or Reserve Aviation Officer (a "US" shield between two wings), and Senior Aviator (a star over "US" shield between two wings). The Army Air Corps also issued a badge for balloon pilots, known as the Aeronaut Badge. Enlisted Aviators wore their regular rank insignia and the Observer's badge. There were 29 enlisted pilots before the American entry into World War I. The second enlisted aviator, William A. Lamkey, got a discharge and flew for Pancho Villa. The remaining enlisted pilots received commissions in 1917. There were 60 enlisted mechanics who were trained as pilots in France during the war, but they were used for ferrying duties and did not fly in combat. The recruiting and training of enlisted Aviators ended in 1933.

The U.S. Army Aviator Badge shall be awarded to soldiers who successfully complete Aviation School and are inducted into the 4th Fighter Group.

A Marksmanship Badge is a military badge of the United States Armed Forces or a U.S. Civilian badge which is presented to personnel upon successful completion of a weapons qualification course (known as Marksmanship Qualification Badges) or high placement in an official marksmanship competition (known as Marksmanship Competition Badges).

Score 36 - 40 hits with the service rifle during rifle qualification.

A Marksmanship Badge is a military badge of the United States Armed Forces or a U.S. Civilian badge which is presented to personnel upon successful completion of a weapons qualification course (known as Marksmanship Qualification Badges) or high placement in an official marksmanship competition (known as Marksmanship Competition Badges).

Score 30 - 35 hits with the service rifle during rifle qualification.

A Marksmanship Badge is a military badge of the United States Armed Forces or a U.S. Civilian badge which is presented to personnel upon successful completion of a weapons qualification course (known as Marksmanship Qualification Badges) or high placement in an official marksmanship competition (known as Marksmanship Competition Badges).

Score 23 - 29 hits with the service rifle during rifle qualification.

Awarded at discretion of Battalion or Company Commander for Heroism or Valor in combat during an official operation mission. 

May be worn when awarded in conjunction with the following medals and ribbons: Bronze Star, and Army Commendation Medal, any other other award at command discretion.

The bronze Oak Leaf Cluster is awarded to and worn by Army personnel on US decorations to denote the second and subsequent awards. A silver Oak Leaf Cluster is worn in lieu of five (5) bronze clusters. Oak Leaf Clusters are also worn on unit citations for the same purpose.

May be worn upon the following awards: Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Army Commendation Medal.

May also be worn upon the following Unit Citations: Presidential Unit Citation, and Valorous Unit Award.

A bronze replica of an Indian arrowhead 1/4-inch tall. It denotes participation in a combat parachute jump during an official operation.

May be worn upon the Operation Ribbon in which the Airborne or Air Assault mission was completed.

Subsequent Awards of the Good Conduct Medal are represented by a clasp with knots placed on the medal or ribbon.

Bronze clasps indicate the second (two loops) through fifth award (five loops); silver clasps indicate sixth (one loop) through tenth award (five loops); and gold clasps indicate eleventh (one loop) through the fifteenth award (5 loops). 
Second, fifth, sixth, and tenth award are pictured.

In 1777 the French ancien régime army had used Galons d'ancienneté, or "Seniority Braid" (cloth braid chevrons nicknamed brisures > "breaks") worn on the upper sleeves awarded for each seven years of enlistment.[4] Soldiers who wore such emblems were called briscards. The practice was continued in Napoleon Bonaparte's army in which they were awarded for 10, 15, and 20 years of service. The French Army later moved them to the lower sleeves and the rank stripes to the upper sleeves. Service chevrons were worn on the lower left sleeve and Wound Stripes were worn on the lower right sleeve (influencing the American Wound Chevron device).
Sleeve stripes are worn only by enlisted personnel. U.S. Army soldiers wear their stripes on the bottom cuff of the left sleeve and Overseas Service Bars on the right one. Service stripes are only worn on formal uniforms, and are not seen on work uniforms.

The Service Stripe is authorized to be worn each stripe for three month of service, In contrast to the U.S. Army, a service stripe is authorized for wear by enlisted personnel upon completion of the specified service time frame (three months), regardless of the service member's disciplinary history. For example, a soldier with several non-judicial punishments and courts-martial would still be authorized a service stripe for three months service, although the Good Conduct Medal would be denied.