*SPECIAL NOTE: This list of Air Medals with "V" device recipients should not be considered complete. This is an ongoing project and we welcome information on additional Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Soldier’s Medal, Bronze Star with "V" device, ARCOM with "V" device, and Air Medal with "V" device recipients. Please contact us via e mail.
The Air Medal was established by Executive Order 9158, 11 May 1942, as amended by Executive Order 9242–A, 11 September 1942. The Air Medal is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity in or with the Armed Forces of the United States, who has distinguished himself or herself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. Awards may be made to recognize single acts of valor, merit or heroism, or for meritorious service as described below:
Awards may be made for acts of heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy or while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party, which are of a lesser degree than required for award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Awards may be made for a single act of meritorious achievement, involving superior airmanship, which are of a lesser degree than required for award of the Distinguished Flying Cross, but nevertheless were accomplished with distinction beyond that normally expected.
When the Air Medal is awarded for valor, a bronze letter "V" (for valor) is worn on the suspension and service ribbon of that medal.
The Air Medal may be awarded with the “C” device to recognize exceptionally meritorious service or achievement performed under combat conditions on or after 7 January 2016.
