The Patriot Files Forums  


  Home · Search · Register  

60 result(s) to your search. (foreign) Prev Page · Next Page

2ch53_2.jpg

David
Thu January 16, 2003 10:39am
CH-53E Super Stallion


Function: Transportation of heavy equipment and supplies during the ship-to-shore movement of an amphibious assault and during subsequent operations ashore.





History: Derived from an engineering change proposal to the twin-engine CH-53D helicopter, the CH-53E has consistently proven its worth to the Fleet commanders with its versatility and range. With four and one half hours' endurance, the Super Stallion can move more equipment over rugged terrain in bad weather and at night. During Operation Eastern Exit two CH-53Es launched from amphibious ships and flew 463 nautical miles (532.45 miles) at night, refueling twice enroute, to rescue American and foreign allies from the American Embassy in the civil war-torn capital of Mogadishu, Somalia in January of 1990. Two CH-53Es rescued Air Force Capt. Scott O'Grady in Bosnia in June 1995.





Description: The CH-53E is a follow-on for its predecessor, the CH-53D. Improvements include the addition of a third engine to give the aircraft the ability to lift the majority of the Fleet Marine Force's equipment, a dual point cargo hook system, improved main rotor blades, and composite tail rotor blades. A dual digital automatic flight control system and engine anti-ice system give the aircraft an all-weather capability. The helicopter seats 37 passengers in its normal configuration and has provisions to carry 55 passengers with centerline seats installed. With the dual point hook systems, it can carry external loads at increased airspeeds due to the stability achieved with the dual point system.


As the Marine Corps' heavy lift helicopter designed for the transportation of material and supplies, the CH-53E is compatible with most amphibious class ships and is carried routinely aboard LHA (Landing, Helicopter, Assault: an amphibious assault ship), LPH (Landing Platform, Helicopter: an amphibious assault ship) and now LHD (Landing, Helicopter, Dock: an amphibious assault ship) type ships. The helicopter is capable of lifting 16 tons (14.5 metric tons) at sea level, transporting the load 50 nautical miles (57.5 miles) and returning. A typical load would be a 16,000 pound (7264 kilogram) M198 howitzer or a 26,000 pound (11,804 kilogram) Light Armored Vehicle. The aircraft also can retrieve downed aircraft including another CH-53E. The 53E is equipped with a refueling probe and can be refueled in flight giving the helicopter indefinite range.





General Characteristics, CH-53E Super Stallion



Contractor:
Sikorsky Aircraft





Unit Cost:
$26.1 million





Power Plant:
Three General Electric T64-GE-416 turboshaft engines producing 4380 shaft horsepower each





Thrust:
1,770 horsepower





Length:
99 feet 5 inches (2.64 meters)





Height:
28 feet 4 inches (.81 meters)





Rotor Diameter:
79 feet (24.07 meters)









Maximum Take-off Weight:
Internal load: 69,750 pounds (31,666 kilograms)


External load: 73,500 pounds (33,369 kilograms)





Speed:
172.5 mph (150 knots)





Range:
Without refueling: 621 miles (540 nautical miles)


With aerial refueling: indefinite





Crew:
Three





Armament:
Two XM-218 .50 caliber machine guns





Introduction Date:
June 1981
2t37_large.jpg

David
Thu January 16, 2003 6:24pm
AT-37 Tweet


Function: The T-37 Tweet is a twin-engine jet used for training undergraduate pilots, undergraduate navigator and tactical navigator students in fundamentals of aircraft handling, and instrument, formation and night flying.





History: The T-37A made its first flight in 1955 and went into service with the Air Force in 1956. The T-37B became operational in 1959. All T-37A's have been modified to T-37B standards. A contract was awarded in August 1989 to Sabreliner Corp. for the T-37B Structural Life Extension Program. The contract included the design, testing and production of kits, installed by a U.S. Air Force contract field team, which modified or replaced critical structural components for the entire fleet, extending the capability of the T-37 into the next century. More than 1,000 T-37s were built, and 507 remain in the U.S. Air Force inventory. All have been repainted in a distinctive dark blue and white to help formation training and to ease maintenance.








Description: The twin engines and flying characteristics of the T-37 give student pilots the feel for handling the larger, faster T-38 Talon or T-1A Jayhawk later in the undergraduate pilot training course. The instructor and student sit side by side for more effective training. The cockpit has dual controls, ejection seats and a clamshell-type canopy that can be jettisoned. The T-37 has a hydraulically operated speed brakes, tricycle landing gear and a steerable nose wheel. Six rubber-cell, interconnected fuel tanks in each wing feed the main tank in the fuselage.


The T-37B has improved radio navigational equipment, UHF radio and redesigned instrument panels. Many foreign air forces fly the T-37B, including those of Thailand, Greece, Chile, Jordan, Turkey and Pakistan. Students from 12 North Atlantic Treaty Organization countries train in T-37B's at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. Flying the T-37C are the air forces of Portugal, Peru, Colombia and Greece, among others.


The T-37C is similar to the T-37B, but has provisions for both armament and wingtip fuel tanks. The plane can carry two, 250-pound (112.5 kilogram) bombs. Associated equipment includes computing gun sights and a 16mm gun camera. The aircraft can be fitted with cameras for reconnaissance missions.








General Characteristics, T-37 Tweet



Builder:
Cessna Aircraft Company





Unit Cost:
$164,854





Power Plant:
Two Continental J69-T-25 turbojet engines





Thrust:
1,025 pounds (461.25 kilograms), each engine





Length:
29 feet, 3 inches (8.9 meters)





Height:
9 feet, 2 inches (2.8 meters)





Wingspan:
33 feet, 8 inches (10.2 meters)





Maximum Take-off Weight:
6,625 pounds (2,981 kilograms)









Speed:
315 mph (Mach 0.4 at sea level)





Ceiling:
35,000 feet (10.6 kilometers)





Range:
460 miles (400 nautical miles)





Armament:
T-37B, none
T-37C has provisions for external armament





Crew:
Two (instructor and student)





Inventory:
Active force, 507
ANG, 0
Reserve 0





Date Deployed:
December 1956
2tomahawk_large.jpg

David
Thu January 16, 2003 11:24pm
Tomahawk


Function: Long range, subsonic cruise missile used for land attack warfare, launched from surface ships and submarines.





Description: Tomahawk Block II uses a Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM) and Digital Scene Matching Area Correlation (DSMAC) missile guidance system. Block III adds a Global Positioning Satellite guidance capability to TERCOM and DSMAC. Radar detection of the missile is extremely difficult because of the small radar cross-section and low altitude. Tomahawk has two warhead configurations: a 1,000-pound blast/fragmentary unitary warhead and a general-purpose submunition dispenser with combined effect bomblets.


The capabilities of the future Tomahawk, Block IV or Tactical Tomahawk, will include battle damage assessment, in flight retargeting, and mission planning from the launch platform. It is projected to enter service in 2003.





History: Tomahawk cruise missiles are designed to fly at extremely low altitudes at high subsonic speeds, and are piloted over an evasive route by several mission tailored guidance systems. The first operational use was in Operation Desert Storm, 1991. The missile has since been successfully used in several other conflicts. In 1995 the governments of the United States and United Kingdom signed a Foreign Military Sales Agreement for the acquisition of 65 missiles, marking the first sale of Tomahawk to a foreign country. After a November 1998 launch and live warhead test, the U.K. declared operational capability.





General Characteristics, Tomahawk Cruise Missile





Manufacturer:
Raytheon Systems Company, Tucson, AZ





Power Plant:
Williams International F107-WR-402 cruise turbo-fan engine; CSD/ARC solid-fuel booster





Length:
18 feet 3 inches (5.56 meters)


With booster: 20 feet 6 inches (6.25 meters)





Weight:
2,900 pounds (1,315.44 kilograms)


With booster: 3,500 pounds (1,587.6 kilograms)





Diameter:
20.4 inches (51.81 centimeters)





Wingspan:
8 feet 9 inches (2.67 meters)









Range:
870 nautical miles (1000 statute miles, 1609 kilometers)





Speed:
Subsonic - about 550 mph (880 kmh)





Guidance System:
TERCOM, DSMAC, and GPS (Block III only)





Warheads:
1,000 pounds or conventional submunitions dispenser with combined effect bomblets





Dates Deployed:
1986 - IOC
1994 - Block III
2003 - Tactical Tomahawk





Unit Cost:
Approximately $600,000 (from the last production contract)
211001.jpg

David
Tue February 4, 2003 12:43am
1 October 1941. ". . . an

1 October 1941. ". . . and the Wolf chewed up the children and spit out their bones . . . But those were Foreign Children and it really didn't matter."
2delta2_large.jpg

David
Tue February 11, 2003 12:53pm
Delta II Medium Launch Ve


Function: The Delta II is an expendable launch, medium-lift vehicle used to launch Navstar Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites into orbit, providing navigational data to military users. Additionally, the Delta II launches civil and commercial payloads into low-earth, polar, geo-transfer and geosynchronous orbits.





Description: The Delta II stands a total height of 125.9 feet (37.8 meters). The payload fairing -- the shroud covering the third stage and the satellite -- is 9.5 ft wide to accommodate the GPS satellite. A 10-foot (3.3 meters) wide fairing also is available for larger payloads. Six of the nine solid-rocket motors that ring the first stage separate after one minute of flight, and the remaining three ignite, then separate, after burn-out one minute later.


The Delta II is launched primarily from Cape Canaveral AFS, FL, but is also launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, CA. Members of Air Force Space Command's 45th Space Wing, with headquarters at Patrick AFB, FL, and 30th Space Wing at Vandenberg are responsible for the Delta II's military launch missions.





History: The Delta launch vehicle family began in 1959 when NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center awarded a contract to Douglas Aircraft Company (now Boeing) to produce and integrate 12 space-launch vehicles. The Delta used components from the U.S. Air Force's Thor intermediate-range ballistic missile as its first stage and the U.S. Navy's Vanguard launch-vehicle program as its second. The first Delta was launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on May 13, 1960 and had the ability to deliver a 100-pound spacecraft into geostationary transfer orbit.


In January 1987 the Air Force awarded a contract to McDonnell Douglas, now Boeing, for construction of 18 Delta IIs to launch Navstar GPS satellites, originally programmed for launch on the space shuttle. Since then, the order expanded to accommodate 28 GPS satellite-dedicated launch vehicles.


The first Delta II was successfully launched on Feb. 14, 1989, at Cape Canaveral. There are two primary versions of the Delta II (6925 and 7925). The Delta 6925, the first version, carried the initial nine GPS satellites into orbit.


The Delta program has more than 245 successful domestic and foreign military and commercial launches. The Delta accomplished many firsts over the years. These include the first international satellite, Telstar I, in 1962; the first geosynchronous-orbit satellite, Syncorn II, in 1963; and the first commercial communications satellite, COMSAT I, in 1965.






General Characteristics, Delta II





Builder:
Boeing Company, Expendable Launch Systems





Power Plant, First Stage:
One Rocketdyne RS-27 and two LR-101-NA-11 vernier engines; both use refined kerosene and liquid oxygen as its propellants; thrust (sea level), 200,000 pounds





Power Plant, Second Stage:
Restartable Aerojet AJ10-110K motor; uses nitrogen tetroxide and Aerozine 50 propellants; thrust, 9,750 pounds





Payload Assist Module:
If used, Star-48B Solid-fuel Rocket, 14,920 pounds


Nine Alliant Techsystems strap-on graphite-epoxy motors surround the first stage for augmented lift-off; thrust 100,270 pounds





Thrust at Liftoff:
699,250 pounds





Height:
125 feet, 9 inches (38.32 meters)





Diameter:
Fairing: 9.5 feet (2.87 meters)
Core: 8 feet (2.4 meters)





Weight:
511,190 pounds (231,870 kilograms)





Lift Capability:
Can carry payloads into near-earth orbits (approximately 100 nautical miles [160 kilometers] in space)


Can lift up to 11,100 pounds (4,995 kilograms) into a 28-degree circular near-earth orbit and up to 8,420 pounds (3,789 kilograms) into a 90-degree polar near-earth orbit


Can carry up to 4,010 pounds (1,804.5 kilograms) into geo-transfer orbit (approximately 12,000 miles [19,200 kilometers]) and up to 2,000 pounds (909 kilograms) into geosynchronous orbit (approximately 22,000 miles [35,200 kilometers])









Payloads:
Three-stage Delta 7925 has carried 29 GPS Block II satellites into orbit, with another 19 slated to launch as needed


National Reconnaissance Office's GeoLITE payload will also use a Delta 7925


Two-stage Delta 7920 launched the Advanced Research and Global Observation Satellite, an Air Force Space Test Program mission.





Guidance System:
Delta Redundant Inertial Flight Control Assembly manufactured by Allied Signal Aerospace





Date Deployed:
November 26, 1990 (7920/7925 series)





Launch Sites:
Space Launch Complex 17, Cape Canaveral AFS, FL


Space Launch Complex 2, Vandenberg AFB, CA





Inventory:
Active force, 2 (with more on order)





Unit Cost:
Unavailable











2insignia_army_awards_armed.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 9:39pm
Armed Forces Service Meda

ARMED FORCES SERVICE MEDAL


1. Description: A bronze medal, 1 1/4 inches in diameter with a demi-torch (as on the Statue of Liberty) encircled at the top by the inscription "ARMED FORCES SERVICE MEDAL" on the obverse side. On the reverse side is an eagle (as on the seal of the Department of Defense) between a wreath of laurel in base and the inscription "IN PURSUIT OF DEMOCRACY" at the top.


2. Ribbon: The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch goldenlight 67107; 1/8 inch jungle green 67191; 1/8 inch green 67129; 1/8 inch mosstone 67127; 1/8 inch goldenlight; center ? inch bluebird 67117; 1/8 inch goldenlight; 1/8 inch mosstone; 1/8 inch green; 1/8 inch jungle green; and 1/16 inch goldenlight.


3. Criteria: The medal will be awarded to personnel assigned to operations in an area designated by the Department of Defense (DOD) for award of the medal.


4. Components: The following are authorized components and related items:


a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/231. NSN 8455-01-426-5479 for set which includes a regular size medal and ribbon bar.


b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/231. Available commercially.


c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/13. Available commercially.


5. Background:


a. On 2 March 1995, the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Force Management Policy) (OASD-RMP) requested that The Institute of Heraldry prepare a medal and ribbon design for the proposed Armed Forces Service Medal. This medal was to be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who participated as members of units involved in military operations of significant numbers with no foreign armed opposition or the threat of imminent hostile action. This medal is intended to meet a void in the criteria between the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the Humanitarian Service Medal.


b. Proposed design was forwarded by OASD-FMP to the Services and the Joint Staff. Concurrence in the establishment of the medal from the Services and the Joint Staff was received and the proposal was forwarded to the Office of Budget and Management (OMB) for issuance of an Executive Order. The medal was authorized by Executive Order 12985, dated 11 January 1996.


c. Eligibility requirements include:


(1) Service as a member of a unit participating for one or more days in the operation with the designated area of eligibility, or- -


(2) Be engaged in direct support for 30 consecutive days in the area of eligibility (or for the full period when an operation is less than 30 days duration) or for 60 nonconsecutive days provided this support involves entering the area of eligibility, or- -


(3) Participate as a regularly assigned crewmember of an aircraft flying into, out of, within, or over the area of eligibility in support of the operation.


d. The Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), has approved award of the Armed Forces Service Medal to US Military personnel as follows: (1) In operations relating to the former Republic of Yugoslavia from 1 June 1992 to a future date. This area includes military forces deployed in operations Provide Promise, Joint Endeavor, Able Sentry, Deny Flight, Maritime Monitor, Sharp Guard and Joint Guard within the total land and air space of the former Republic of Yugoslavia, the country of Italy (including Sicily); and the waters and air space above that portion of the Adriatic Sea that lies north of forty degrees North latitude; (2) In operations: United Nations Missions in Haiti (UNMIH); US Forces Haiti (USFORHAITI) and US Support Group-Haiti (USSPTGP-Haiti) from 1 April 1995 to a date to be determined. This area includes the total land area, sea and air space defined by the following coordinates: 16-30N/71-40W; 18-00N/71-45W; along the Haitian/Dominican Republic Border to 20-00N/71-44W; 21-00N/71W; 21-25N/73-00W; 21-25N/74-00W; 20-00N/74-00W; 19-45N/75-00W; 19-00N/76-00W; 16-30N/76-00W; to 16-30N/71-40W.
2insignia_army_awards_bronze.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 9:39pm
Bronze Star Medal with Ri

BRONZE STAR


1. Description: A bronze star 1 ? inches in circumscribing diameter. In the center thereof is a 3/16-inch diameter superimposed bronze star, the center line of all rays of both stars coinciding. The reverse has the inscription "HEROIC OR MERITORIOUS ACHIEVEMENT" and a space for the name of the recipient to be engraved. The star is suspended from the ribbon by a rectangular shaped metal loop with the corners rounded.


2. Ribbon: The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/32 inch white 67101; 9/16 inch scarlet 67111; 1/32 inch white; center stripe 1/8 inch ultramarine blue 67118; 1/32 inch white; 9/16 inch scarlet; and 1/32 inch white.


3. Criteria:


a. The Bronze Star Medal is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity in or with the military of the United States after 6 December 1941, distinguished himself or herself by heroic or meritorious achievement or service, not involving participation in aerial flight, while engaged in an 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.


b. Awards may be made for acts of heroism, performed under circumstances described above, which are of lesser degree than required for the award of the Silver Star.


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


4. Components: The following are authorized components of the Bronze Star Medal:


a. Decoration (regular size): MIL-D-3943/22. NSN for decoration set is 8455-00-269-5749. NSN for replacement medal is 8455-00-246-3829.


b. Decoration (miniature size): MIL-D-3943/22. NSN 8455-00-996-5004.


c. Ribbon: MIL-R-11589/18. NSN 8455-00-252-9915.


d. Lapel Button: MIL-R-11484/16. NSN 8455-00-265-4889.


5. Background: a. 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.


b. 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.


c. 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.


d. Order of precedence and wear of decorations is contained in Army Regulation 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority, supply, and issue of decorations is contained in AR 600-8-22.


2insignia_army_awards_defense.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 9:39pm
American Defense Medal wi

AMERICAN DEFENSE SERVICE MEDAL


1. Description: The bronze medal is 1 ? inches in width. On the obverse is a female Grecian figure symbolic of defense, holding in her sinister hand an ancient war shield in reverse and her dexter hand brandishing a sword above her head, and standing upon a conventionalized oak branch with four leaves. Around the top is the lettering "AMERICAN DEFENSE". On the reverse is the wording "FOR SERVICE DURING THE LIMITED EMERGENCY PROCLAIMED BY THE PRESIDENT ON SEPTEMBER 8,1939 OR DURING THE UNLIMITED EMERGENCY PROCLAIMED BY THE PRESIDENT ON MAY 27,1941" above a seven-leafed spray of laurel. The foreign service clasp is a Bronze bar 1/8 inch in width and 1-1/2 inches in length with the words "FOREIGN SERVICE", with a star at each end of the inscription. The foreign service clasp is placed on the suspension ribbon of the medal.


2. Ribbon: The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/16 inch golden yellow 67104; 1/8 inch triparted old glory blue 67178; white 67101; and scarlet 67111; center ? inch golden yellow; 1/8 inch triparted scarlet; white; and old glory blue 67178; and 3/16 inch golden yellow.


3. Criteria: The American Defense Service Medal was awarded to personnel for active duty service from 8 September 1939 to 7 December 1941 for a period of twelve months or longer.


4. Components: The following are authorized components:


a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/228. Medal set with full size medal and ribbon bar. NSN: 8455-00-269-5780.


b. Medal (miniature): MIL-DTL-3943/228. Available commercially.


c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/10. NSN: 8455-00-257-0513. Available commercially.


d. Foreign Service Clasp: MIL-R-41819/9. NSN: 8455-00-249-0187.


5. Background:


a. The American Defense Service Medal was established per Executive Order 8808, dated 28 June 1941, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and announced in War Department Bulletin 17, 1941. The criteria was announced in Department of the Army Circular 44, dated 13 February 1942.


b. The ribbon design was approved by the Secretary of War and the Secretary of Navy on January 7, 1942. The golden yellow color was symbolic of the golden opportunity of the youth of the United States to serve the National colors, represented by the blue, white and red pin stripes on each side.


c. The medal was designed by Mr. Lee Lawrie, a civilian sculptor from Easton, Maryland. The model was approved by the Commission of Fine Arts on May 5, 1942.


d. The foreign service clasp is worn on the suspension ribbon to indicate service outside the Continental United States. A bronze star is worn on the service ribbon in lieu of the foreign service clasp.
2insignia_army_awards_honor.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 9:39pm
Medal of Honor with Ribbo

MEDAL OF HONOR


Description: A gold five pointed star, each point tipped with trefoils, 1 ? inches wide, surrounded by a green laurel wreath and suspended from a gold bar inscribed "VALOR", surmounted by an eagle. In the center of the star, Minerva?s head surrounded by the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." On each ray of the star is a green oak leaf. On the reverse is a bar engraved "THE CONGRESS TO" with a space for engraving the name of the recipient.


Ribbon: The medal is suspended by a neck ribbon, 1 3/8 inches wide, Bluebird 67117. A shield of the same color ribbon with thirteen White (67101) stars, arranged in the form of three chevrons is above the medal. The service ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide with five White stars in the form of a "M".


Criteria: The Medal of Honor is awarded by the President, in the name of Congress, to a person who, while a member of the Army, distinguishes himself or herself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her life above and beyond the call of duty 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. The deed performed must have been one of personal bravery or self-sacrifice so conspicuous as to clearly distinguish the individual above his or her comrades and must have involved risk of life. Incontestable proof of the performance of the service will be exacted and each recommendation for the award of this decoration will be considered on the standard of extraordinary merit.


Background:


a. General George Washington had created the Badge of Military Merit on 7 August 1792 but it had fallen into disuse after the Revolutionary War. Decorations, as such, were still too closely related to European royalty to be of concern to the American people. However, the fierce fighting and deeds of valor during the Civil War brought into focus the realization that such valor must be recognized. Legislation was introduced in the Senate on 17 February 1862, which authorized the medal for the Army and followed the pattern of a similar award approved for Naval personnel in December 1861. The Resolution provided that: "The President of the United States be, and he is hereby, authorized to cause two thousand "medals of honor" to be prepared with suitable emblematic devices, and to direct that the same be presented, in the name of Congress, to such noncommissioned officers and privates as shall most distinguish themselves by their gallantry in action, and other soldier-like qualities during the present insurrection, and the sum of ten thousand dollars be, and the same is hereby appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for the purpose of carrying this resolution into effect." 1862


b. The original design for the Army was created by Christian Schussel and engraved by Anthony C. Pacquot. The pendant was identical to the design approved by the Navy, with the exception of the suspension and clasp. It consisted of a five-pointed star, tipped with trefoils containing a crown of laurel and oak. In the middle, a band of 34 stars represented the number of States in 1862. Minerva, personifying the United States, stands with a left hand resting on fasces and right hand holding a shield blazoned with the United States arms. She repulses Discord, represented by snakes. The pendant was suspended by a trophy of crossed cannons, balls, sword and an American eagle. The clasp was two cornucopias and the arms of the United States.


c. The initial law was amended by an Act of Congress on 3 March 1863 to extend its provisions to include officers. 1896


d. In 1896, misuse of the medal led to a change in the design of the ribbon because the original had been imitated by nonmilitary organizations. This change was authorized by Joint Resolution of Congress, Fifty-Fourth Congress, Sess. I, 2 May 1896. At this time a bowknot (rosette) was adopted to be worn in lieu of the medal. The ribbon and bowknot (rosette), established and prescribed by the President, was promulgated in War Department Orders dated 10 November 1896. 1904


e. On 23 April 1904, Congress authorized a new design of the medal. The design adopted at that time was designed by Major General George L. Gillespie and is the one currently in use. The medal was worn either suspended from the neck or pinned over the left breast in precedence to other military decorations.


f. The present neck ribbon was adopted in 1944. It is worn outside the shirt collar and inside the coat, hanging above all other decorations.


g. Special entitlements for recipients of the Medal of Honor include:


(1) Each Medal of Honor awardee may have his name entered on the Medal of Honor Roll (38 USC 560). Each person whose name is placed on the Medal of Honor Roll is certified to the Department of Veterans Affairs as being entitled to receive the special pension of $400 per month.


(2) Enlisted recipients of the Medal of Honor are entitled to a supplemental uniform allowance.


(3) Special entitlements to air transportation under the provisions of DOD Regulation 4515.13-R.


(4) Identification card, commissary and exchange privileges for Medal of Honor recipients and their eligible dependents.


(5) Children of recipients are eligible for admission to the U.S. Service Academies without regard to the quota requirements.


(6) Ten percent increase in retired pay under Title 10, USC 3991, subject to the 75% limit on total retired pay.
2insignia_army_awards_kuwait.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 9:39pm
Kuwait Liberation Medal w

KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF SAUDI ARABIA


1. Description: The medal is 1 25/32 inches in width and is described as follows: On a Gold sunburst with stylized Silver rays, a globe depicting the Arabian Peninsula encircled by a wreath of palm between a scroll in the base inscribed "LIBERATION OF KUWAIT" and at the top a palm tree issuing from two diagonally crossed sabers, all Gold.


2. Ribbon: The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 5/32 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 5/64 inch Black 67138; 9/64 inch White 67101; center 5/8 inch Irish Green 67189; 9/64 inch White; 5/64 inch Black; and 5/32 inch Old Glory Red.


3. Criteria: a. Members of the Armed Forces of the United States must have served in support of Operation Desert Storm between 17 January 1991 and 28 February 1991 in one of the following areas: Persian Gulf; Red Sea; Gulf of Oman; that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude; the Gulf of Aden; or the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.


b. To be eligible, a Service member must have been:


(1) attached to or regularly serving for one or more days with an organization participating in ground/shore operations;


(2) attached to or regularly serving for one or more days aboard a naval vessel directly supporting military operations.


(3) actually participating as a crew member in one or more aerial flights supporting military operations in the areas designated above; or


(4) serving on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days during this period. This time limitation may be waived for people participating in actual combat operations.


4. Components: The following are authorized components and related items.


a. Medal (regular size): (Initial issue provided by Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) MIL-DTL-3943/244. NSN 8455-01-349-7517.


b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/244. Available commercially.


c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/75 with ribbon attachment. Available commercially.


5. Background: a. The Kuwait Liberation Medal granted by decree of the King of Saudi Arabia, dated 23-10-1411H, was accepted by the Deputy Secretary of Defense per memorandum dated 7 October 1991, subject: Acceptance of Foreign Award in Recognition of Active Field Service in Time of Combat Operations.


b. A gold device consisting of two crossed sabers and a palm tree is affixed to the service ribbon.


c. The sunburst symbolizes the light of freedom. The globe, depicting the Arabian Peninsula, denotes the theater of operations and is encircled by palm, denoting victory. The palm tree with crossed sabers is the emblem of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Green, red, white and black are the colors of the flag of Kuwait. Green and white are colors in the flag of Saudi Arabia.


d. The wear of foreign service medals is prescribed in Army Regulation 670-1. The Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Government of Saudia Arabia will be worn immediately following the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
2insignia_army_awards_pow.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 9:40pm
Prisoner of War Medal wit

PRISONER OF WAR MEDAL


1. Description: On a bronze medal, 1 3/8 inches in diameter, an eagle with wings opened surrounded by a circle of barbed wire and bayonet points. The reverse has the inscription "AWARDED TO" around the top and "FOR HONORABLE SERVICE WHILE A PRISONER OF WAR" across the center in three lines with a space between the two inscriptions for engraving the name of the recipient. The shield of the Coat of Arms of the United States is centered on the lower part of the reverse side with the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the bottom of the medal.


2. Ribbon: The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 3/32 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/8 inch White; center 11/16 inch Black 67138; 1/8 inch White; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue; 3/32 inch White; and 1/16 inch Old Glory Red.


3. Criteria:


a. The Prisoner of War Medal is issued only to those U.S. military personnel who were taken prisoner and held captive after 5 April 1917;


(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; or


(3) While serving with friendly forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.


b. Civilians who have been credited with military service which included the period of captivity are also eligible for the medal.


c. Hostages of terrorists and persons detained by governments with which the United States is not engaged actively in armed conflict are not eligible for the medal.


4. Components: The following are components of the Prisoner of War Medal:


a. Medal (regular size): MIL-M-3946/53. NSN 8455-01-251-2096 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.


b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/241. Available commercially.


c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/319. Available commercially.


d. Lapel Button: MIL-DTL-11484/152. Available commercially.


5. Background: a. Public Law 99-145, Department of Defense Authorization Act, dated 8 November 1985, amended Chapter 57 of Title 10, USC, 1128, to require under certain circumstances the issuance of a Prisoner of War Medal to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States, was taken prisoner and held captive after 5 April 1917.


b. As a result of the above law, DOD solicited designs from all sources, and on 29 November 1985, designated The Institute of Heraldry (TIOH) as the Executive Agency for designing and procuring the medal. Over 300 designs were received and referred to a committee, comprised of representatives of the Armed Services, for advising the Secretary of Defense on a selection.


c. The design selected was created by Mr. Jay C. Morris of The Institute of Heraldry. The symbolism of the design is as follows: The eagle, a symbol of the United States and the American spirit, though surrounded by barbed wire and bayonet points, stands with pride and dignity, continually on the alert for the opportunity to seize hold of beloved freedom, thus symbolizing the hope that upholds the spirit of the prisoner of war. The ribbon colors red, white, and blue are symbolic of our National colors while determination to survive in or to escape from a hostile environment.


d. Order of precedence and wear policy for medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in AR 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22.
2insignia_army_awards_purple.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 9:40pm
Purple Heart Medal with R

PURPLE HEART


1. Description: A Purple heart within a Gold border, 1 3/8 inches wide, containing a profile of General George Washington. Above the heart appears a shield of the Washington Coat of Arms (a White shield with two Red bars and three Red stars in chief) between sprays of Green leaves. The reverse consists of a raised Bronze heart with the words "FOR MILITARY MERIT" below the coat of arms and leaves.


2. Ribbon: The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/8 inch White 67101; 1 1/8 inches Purple 67115; and 1/8 inch White 67101.


3. Criteria:


a. The Purple Heart is awarded in the name of the President of the United States to any member of an Armed Force who, while serving with the U.S. Armed Services after 5 April 1917, has been wounded or killed, or who has died or may hereafter die after being wounded;


(1) In any action against an enemy of the United States;


(2) In any action with an opposing armed force of a foreign country in which the Armed Forces of the United States are or have been engaged;


(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;


(4) As a result of an act of any such enemy of opposing armed forces;


(5) As the result of an act of any hostile foreign force;


(6) After 28 March 1973, as a result of an international terrorist attack against the United States or a foreign nation friendly to the United States, recognized as such an attack by the Secretary of the department concerned, or jointly by the Secretaries of the departments concerned if persons from more than one department are wounded in the attack; or,


(7) After 28 March 1973, as a result of military operations, while serving outside the territory of the United States as part of a peacekeeping force.


(8) After 7 December 1941, by weapon fire while directly engaged in armed conflict, regardless of the fire causing the wound.


(9) While held as a prisoner of war or while being taken captive.


b. A wound for which the award is made must have required treatment by a medical officer.


4. Components:


a. Decoration (regular size): MIL-D-3943/24; NSN for set 8455-00-269-5757; individual medal 8455-00-246-3833.


b. Decoration (miniature size): MIL-D-3943//24.


c. Ribbon: MIL-R-11589/126. NSN 8455-00-9948.


d. Lapel Button (metal replica of ribbon bar): MIL-L-11484/18. NSN 8455-00-253-0818.


5. Background: a. 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".


b. 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.


c. 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.


d. 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.


e. Executive Order 10409, dated 12 February 1952, revised authorizations to include the Service Secretaries subject to approval of the Secretary of Defense. Executive Order 11016, dated 25 April 1962, included provisions for posthumous award of the Purple Heart. Executive Order 12464, dated 23 February 1984, authorized award of the Purple Heart as a result of terrorist attacks or while serving as part of a peacekeeping force subsequent to 28 March 1973.


f. The Senate approved an amendment to the 1985 Defense Authorization Bill on 13 June 1985, which changed the precedent from immediately above the Good Conduct Medal to immediately above the Meritorious Service Medals. Public Law 99-145 authorized the award for wounds received as a result of "friendly fire". Public Law 104-106 expanded the eligibility date, authorizing award of the Purple Heart to a former prisoner of war who was wounded before 25 April 1962.


g. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year1998 (Public Law 105-85) changed the criteria to delete authorization for award of the Purple Heart Medal to any civilian national of the United States while serving under competent authority in any capacity with the Armed Forces. This change was effective 18 May 1998.


h. Order of precedence and wear of decorations is contained in Army Regulation 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority, supply, and issue of decorations is contained in AR 600-8-22.
2insignia_army_awards_silver.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 9:40pm
Silver Star Medal with Ri

SILVER STAR


1. Description: A gold star, 1 ? inches in circumscribing diameter with a laurel wreath encircling rays from the center and a 3/16 inch diameter silver star superimposed in the center. The pendant is suspended from a rectangular shaped metal loop with rounded corners. The reverse has the inscription "FOR GALLANTRY IN ACTION".


2. Ribbon: The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/32 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 3/64 inch White 67101; 7/32 inch Ultramarine Blue; 7/32 inch White; 7/32 inch Old Glory Red 67156 (center stripe); 7/32 inch White; 7/32 inch Ultramarine Blue; 3/64 inch White; and 3/32 inch Ultramarine Blue.


3. Criteria: The Silver Star is awarded to a person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Army, is cited for gallantry 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 armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. The required gallantry, while of a lesser degree than that required for award of the Distinguished Service Cross, must nevertheless have been performed with marked distinction. Soldiers who received a citation for gallantry in action during World War I may apply to have the citation converted to the Silver Star Medal.


4. Components: The following are authorized components of the Silver Star Medal:


a. Decoration (regular size): MIL-D-3943/11. NSN for decoration set: 8455-00-269-5758. Individual medal: 8455-00-246-3834.


b. Decoration (miniature size): MIL-D-3943/11. NSN 8455-00-996-5013.


c. Ribbon: MIL-R-11589/136. NSN 8455-00-252-9953.


d. Lapel Button: MIL-L-11484/9. NSN 8455-00-253-0819.


5. Background:


a. 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.


b. 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.


c. 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.


d. Order of precedence and wear of decorations is contained in Army Regulation 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority, supply, and issue of decorations is contained in Army Regulation 600-8-22.


2insignia_army_awards_soldier.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 9:40pm
Soldier's Medal with Ribb

SOLDIER'S MEDAL


1. Description: On a 1 3/8 inch wide Bronze octagon an eagle displayed, standing on a fasces, between two groups of stars of six and seven, above the group of six a spray of leaves. On the reverse is a shield paly of 13 pieces, on the chief the letters "US", supported by sprays of laurel and oak, around the upper edge the inscription "SOLDIER?S MEDAL" and across the face the words "FOR VALOR." In the base is a panel for the name of the recipient to be engraved. The medal is suspended from the ribbon by a rectangular-shaped metal loop with corners rounded.


2. Ribbon: The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/8 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118 on each side and the center containing 13 White and Red stripes of equal width (7 White 67101 and 6 Old Glory Red 67156).


3. Criteria: The Soldier?s Medal is awarded to any person of the Armed Forces of the United States, or of a friendly foreign nation who while serving in any capacity with the Army of the United States, distinguished him/herself by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy. The same degree of heroism is required as for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. The performance must have involved personal hazard or danger and the voluntary risk of life under conditions not involving conflict with an armed enemy. Awards will not be made solely on the basis of having saved a life. 4. Components: The following are authorized components of the Soldier?s Medal.


a. Decoration (regular size): MIL-D-3943/16. NSN 8455-00-269-5759 for decoration set. NSN 8455-00-246-3835 for individual medal.


b. Decoration (miniature size): MIL-D-3943/16. NSN 8455-00-996-5014.


c. Ribbon: MIL-R-11589/137. NSN 8455-00-252-9956.


d. Lapel Button: MIL-L-11484/12. NSN 8455-00-253-0820.


5. Background:


a. A need to recognize acts of heroism in 1922 resulted in the War Department issuing War Department orders for acts of bravery during peacetime. This led to an Act of Congress (Public Law 446-69th Congress, 2 July 1926 (44 Stat. 780)) which established the Soldier?s Medal for acts of heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy. The Secretary of War directed that the Quartermaster General prepare and submit appropriate designs of the Soldier?s Medal per letter signed by The Adjutant General dated 11 August 1926.


b. The Secretary of War requested assistance in preparing a design from the Secretary of Treasury by letter dated 18 January 1927. In a response to the Secretary of War by letter dated 22 January 1927, the Secretary of Treasury indicated that the Director of the Mint had been instructed to request the Engraver of the Mint at Philadelphia to submit designs and model. A proposed design was completed and forwarded from the Philadelphia Mint on 22 June 1927 and forwarded to the Commission of Fine Arts for comments. The Commission of Fine Arts in a letter to the Secretary of War dated 27 February 1928 stated.. "It would be a very serious disappointment to this Commission, after all its struggles to obtain good medals, to have to rely on work of this character. One of the fundamental objections to the designs submitted is a lack of that simplicity which should characterize all medals of the highest class. The designs and casts are disapproved and returned". Subsequent designs were submitted and rejected by the Commission in November 1929. The Quartermaster General forwarded a letter to Mr. Gaetano Cecere, New York, NY on 20 January 1930, requesting a design and indicating the War Department would pay not more than $1500.00 for an approved design and cast. Mr. Cecere provided a proposed design in April 1930 that was approved by the Commission on 5 May 1930.


c. Title 10, United States Code (USC), Section 3750 contains current statutory requirements for the Soldier?s Medal. Enlisted personnel may be entitled to an increase in retired pay under Title 10, USC 3991 when credited with heroism equivalent to that required for the award of the Distinguished Service Cross.


d. Order of precedence and wear of decorations is contained in Army Regulation 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority, supply, and issue of decorations is contained in Army Regulation 600-8-22.
2insignia_army_awards_valorous.gif

David
Wed February 12, 2003 11:57pm
Army Valorous Unit Award

VALOROUS UNIT AWARD


1. Description: The Valorous Unit Award worn to represent award of the Valorous Unit Award is 1 7/16 inches wide and 9/16 inch in height. The emblem consists of a 1/16 inch wide Gold frame with laurel leaves which encloses a ribbon of the pattern of the Silver Star Medal ribbon centered on a Red ribbon. The stripe dimensions of the ribbon are: 3/8 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 1/64 inch White 67101; 3/32 inch Ultramarine Blue; 3/32 inch White; center 3/32 inch Old Glory Red; 3/32 inch White; 3/32 inch Ultramarine Blue; 1/64 inch White; 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue; and 3/8 inch Old Glory Red. The streamers are the same pattern as the Silver Star Medal ribbon.


2. Criteria: The Valorous Unit Award is to be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed 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 part for actions occurring on or after 3 August 1963. The Valorous Unit Award requires a lesser degree of gallantry, determination, and esprit de corps than that required for the Presidential Unit Citation. Nevertheless, the unit must have performed with marked distinction under difficult and hazardous conditions in accomplishing its mission so as to set it apart from the other units participating in the same conflict. The degree of heroism required is the same as that which would warrant award of the Silver Star to an individual. Extended periods of combat duty or participation in a large number of operational missions, either ground or air, is not sufficient. This award will normally be earned by units that have participated in single or successive actions covering relatively brief time spans. It is not reasonable to presume that entire units can sustain Silver Star performance for extended time periods under the most unusual circumstances. Only on rare occasions will a unit larger than a battalion qualify for this award.


3. Components: The current components of the Valorous Unit Award are the emblems awarded to members of the unit and the streamer for display on the unit flag/guidon.


a. Valorous Unit Award: MIL-D-3943/32 (frame) and MIL-R-11589/154 (ribbon). NSN-8455-00-964-4296.


b. Streamer: MIL-S-14650/5. Manual requisition in accordance with Chapter 9, Army Regulation (AR) 840-10.


4. Background:


a. As a result of a request from the Commander, USMACV, to expand the scope of the Meritorious Unit Commendation to include acts of valor, a review of the unit awards program was conducted in 1965. The study concluded that a gap existed in the awards program. The Distinguished Unit Citation was awarded for gallantry in action for heroism that would warrant the Distinguished Service Cross to an individual. There was no lesser unit award for heroism. Based on the study, a recommendation was submitted to expand the scope of the Meritorious Unit Commendation to include acts of heroism. The recommendation was disapproved by the DCSPER and in a memorandum to the CSA, dated 7 January 1966, the DCSPER recommended a Valorous Unit Award be adopted to signify unit gallantry in combat to a degree equivalent to that required for award of a Silver Star to an individual. The recommendation with proposed design was approved by the Chief of Staff, Army, on 12 January 1966.


b. The emblem is worn by all members of a cited organization and is considered an individual decoration for persons in connection with the cited acts and may be worn whether or not they continue as members of the organization. Other personnel may wear this decoration while serving with an organization to indicate the unit has been awarded the Valorous Unit Award.


c. Order of precedence and wear policy for unit awards is contained in AR 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority, and supply of the unit award emblem is contained in AR 600-8-22. The policy for display of unit awards on guidons and flags and supply of streamers is contained in AR 840-10.

Prev Page · Next Page


Photo Sharing Gallery by PhotoPost
Copyright © 2007 All Enthusiast, Inc.

All times are GMT -7. The time now is 05:38 PM.


Powered by vBulletin, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.