[Federal Register: November 2, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 211)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Page 66601-66661]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr02no05-42]
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Part III
Department of Defense
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Department of the Army
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32 CFR Part 578
Decorations, Medals, Ribbons, and Similar Devices; Proposed Rule
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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Department of the Army
32 CFR Part 578
RIN 0702-AA41-U
Decorations, Medals, Ribbons, and Similar Devices
AGENCY: Department of the Army, DOD.
ACTION: Proposed rule; request for comments.
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SUMMARY: The Department of the Army is proposing to revise our rules
that prescribe policy, criteria, and administrative instructions
concerning individual military awards and to incorporate laws enacted
and policies approved since the rule was last published in 1956.
DATES: Comments must be submitted to the address shown below on or
before January 3, 2006.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by ``32 CFR Part 578 and
RIN 0702-AA41'' in the subject line, by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: http:http://www.regulations.gov.
Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
E-mail: Awards@hoffman.army.mil. Include ``32 CFR Part 578
and RIN 0702-AA41'' in the subject line of the message.
Mail: HQ, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, Military
Awards Branch, ATTN: AHRC-PDO-PA (Arlette King), 200 Stovall Street,
Alexandria, VA 22332-0471.
Facsimile: (703) 325-2581. Please cite ``32 CFR Part 578
and RIN 0702-AA41'' in the subject line of comments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mrs. Arlette King, Chief, Policy
Section, Military Awards Branch or Ms. Denise Harris, Assistant Chief,
Policy Section, Military Awards at (703) 325-9171.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
A. Background
This proposed rule replaces the proposed rule that previously
published in the Federal Register on July 28, 2004 (69 FR 45114). This
proposed rule prescribes policy, criteria, and administrative
instructions concerning individual military awards and incorporates
laws enacted and policies approved since the rule was last published in
1956.
B. Discussion of Proposed Rule
This proposed rule adds the provisions of 10 U.S.C. 1130, that
allows the consideration of awards not previously considered or the
upgrade of decorations previously approved (Sec. 578.5g and Sec.
578.8g(2). This rule adds policy on the issuance of display Medals of
Honor (Sec. 578.3). This rule adds the procedures for awarding U.S.
awards to foreign military personnel (Sec. 578.8h). This rule updates
the criteria for the Purple Heart limiting award only to members of the
U.S. military; clarifies award for friendly fire; and authorizes award
to individuals wounded while prisoners of foreign forces for World War
II and Korea (Sec. 578.17). This rule adds the authority for Brigadier
General Commanders to award the Meritorious Service Medal to U.S. Army
personnel assigned or attached to duty to their command or agency
(Table 3). This rule adds the provisions of 10 U.S.C. 1133 that limits
award of the Bronze Star Medal to service members receiving imminent
danger pay (Sec. 578.16). This rule is being amended to add the
following new individual decorations: Meritorious Service Medal (Sec.
578.18) and Army Achievement Medal (Sec. 578.21). It also adds the
following service/campaign medals: Prisoner of War Medal (Sec.
578.22): Southwest Asia Service Medal (Sec. 578.27); Kosovo Campaign
Medal (Sec. 578.28); Afghanistan Campaign Medal (Sec. 578.29); Iraq
Campaign Medal (Sec. 578.30); Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary
Medal (Sec. 578.31); Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (Sec.
578.32); Korea Defense Service Medal (Sec. 578.33); Armed Forces
Service Medal (Sec. 578.34); Humanitarian Service Medal (Sec.
578.35); Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (Sec. 578.36);
Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (Sec. 578.38); Army Reserve
Components Overseas Training Ribbon (Sec. 578.39); Overseas Service
Ribbon (Sec. 578.40); Army Service Ribbon (Sec. 578.41); and the
Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (Sec. 578.
42). It also adds the following unit awards: Presidential Unit Citation
(Sec. 578.57); Valorous Unit Award (Sec. 578.58); Meritorious Unit
Commendation (Sec. 578.59); and the Army Superior Unit Award (Sec.
578.60). This rule updates criteria on the Combat Infantryman Badge
(Sec. 578.69) and the Combat Medical Badge (Sec. 578.70). The
following special skill badges are added: Combat Action Badge (Sec.
578.71); Expert Field Medical Badge (Sec. 578.73); Parachute Rigger
Badge (Sec. 578.78); Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge (Sec.
578.79); Flight Surgeon Badge (formerly Army Aviation Medical Officer
Badge) (Sec. 578.81); Special Operations Diver Badge (Sec. 578.83);
Pathfinder Badge (Sec. 578.88); Air Assault Badge (Sec. 578.89);
Aviation Badge (Sec. 578.90); Glider Badge (Sec. 578.95); Nuclear
Reactor Operator Badge (Sec. 578.96); Special Forces Tab (Sec.
578.99); Sapper Tab (Sec. 578.100); and the Physical Fitness Badge
(Sec. 578.101). This rule adds the following identification badges:
Presidential Service Badge and Certificate (Sec. 578.105); Vice
Presidential Service Badge and Certificate (Sec. 578.106); Office of
the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge (Sec. 578.107), Joint
Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge (Sec. 578.108); Army Staff
Identification Badge (Sec. 578.109); Guard, Tomb of the Unknown
Soldier Identification Badge (Sec. 578.110); Army ROTC Nurse Cadet
Program Identification Badge (Sec. 578.111); Drill Sergeant
Identification Badge (Sec. 578.112); U.S. Army Recruiter
Identification Badge (Sec. 578.113); Career Counselor Badge (Sec.
578.114); and Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention
Identification Badge (Sec. 578.115). It also adds the following
foreign/international awards: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal
(Sec. 578.127); Multinational Force and Observers Medal (Sec.
578.128); Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal (Sec. 578.129); Kuwait
Liberation Medal-Saudi Arabia (Sec. 578.130); Kuwait Liberation Medal-
Kuwait (Sec. 578.131); and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal
(Sec. 578.132). The following certificates are added: Certificate of
Appreciation to Employers (Sec. 578.135); Certificate for Badges
(Sec. 578.136); and the Cold War Recognition Certificate (Sec.
578.137). This rule deletes the following medals which are obsolete and
no longer awarded: Medal of Merit (formerly Sec. 578.15) and National
Security Medal (formerly (Sec. 578.16). This rule deletes the Joint
Service Commendation Medal (formerly Sec. 578.12) that is prescribed
in Department of Defense 1348.33-M, Manual of Military Decorations and
Awards. This rule deletes the following two civilian awards:
Distinguished Civilian Service Medal (formerly Sec. 578.7g) and
Outstanding Civilian Service Medal (formerly Sec. 578.7h) both are
prescribed in Army Regulation 672-20, Incentive Awards. This rule
deletes the Presidential Medal of Freedom (formerly Sec. 578.17) that
is governed and awarded by the President of the United States and not
the Department of the Army.
C. Regulatory Flexibility Act
The Department of the Army has determined that the Regulatory
Flexibility Act does not apply because the proposed rule does not have
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities
within the meaning of the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601-612.
[[Page 66603]]
D. Paperwork Reduction Act
The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply because the proposed
rule does not impose any information collection requirements that
require the approval of the Office of Management and Budget under 44
U.S.C. 3501, et seq.
E. Executive Order 12866
The Department of the Army has determined that according to the
criteria defined in Executive Order 12866 this proposed rule is not
considered a significant regulatory action. As such, the proposed rule
is not subject to Office of Management and Budget review under section
6(a)(3) of the Executive Order.
James P. Larsen,
Col, AG, Deputy, The Adjutant General.
Lists of Subjects in 32 CFR Part 578
Decorations, Medals, Awards, Military personnel.
For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Department of the Army
proposes to revise 32 CFR Part 578 to read as follows:
PART 578--DECORATIONS, MEDALS, RIBBONS, AND SIMILAR DEVICES
Sec.
578.1 Purpose
578.2 Explanation of terms
578.3 Display sets of award elements and the Medal of Honor
578.4 U.S. Military Decorations
578.5 Award Recommendations
578.6 Wartime Criteria
578.7 Peacetime Criteria
578.8 General Rules
578.9 Medal of Honor
578.10 Distinguished Service Cross
578.11 Distinguished Service Medal
578.12 Silver Star
578.13 Legion of Merit
578.14 Distinguished Flying Cross
578.15 Soldier's Medal
578.16 Bronze Star Medal
578.17 Purple Heart
578.18 Meritorious Service Medal
578.19 Air Medal
578.20 Army Commendation Medal
578.21 Army Achievement Medal
578.22 Prisoner of War Medal
578.23 National Defense Service Medal
578.24 Antarctica Service Medal
578.25 Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
578.26 Vietnam Service Medal
578.27 Southwest Asia Service Medal
578.28 Kosovo Campaign Medal
578.29 Afghanistan Campaign Medal
578.30 Iraq Campaign Medal
578.31 Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
578.32 Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
578.33 Korea Defense Service Medal
578.34 Armed Forces Service Medal
578.35 Humanitarian Service Medal
578.36 Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
578.37 Army Good Conduct Medal
578.38 Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal
578.39 Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon
578.40 Overseas Service Ribbon
578.41 Army Service Ribbon
578.42 Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon
578.43 Armed Forces Reserve Medal
578.44 Korean Service Medal
578.45 Medal of Humane Action
578.46 Army of Occupation Medal
578.47 World War II Victory Medal
578.48 European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal
578.49 Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal
578.50 American Campaign Medal
578.51 Women's Army Corps Service Medal
578.52 American Defense Service Medal
578.53 Army of Occupation of Germany Medal
578.54 World War I Victory Medal
578.55 Service medals and ribbons no longer available for issue
578.56 United States Unit Awards
578.57 Presidential Unit Citation
578.58 Valorous Unit Award
578.59 Meritorious Unit Commendation
578.60 Army Superior Unit Award
578.61 Appurtenances to Military Decorations
578.62 Service ribbons
578.63 Lapel Buttons
578.64 Miniature Decorations
578.65 Supply, Service and Requisition of Medals and Badges
578.66 Original Issue or Replacement
578.67 Manufacture, sale and Illegal possession
578.68 Badges and tabs, general
578.69 Combat Infantryman Badge
578.70 Combat Medical Badge
578.71 Combat Action Badge
578.72 Expert Infantryman Badge
578.73 Expert Field Medical Badge
578.74 Parachutist Badge
578.75 Parachutist Badge-Basic
578.76 Senior Parachutist Badge
578.77 Master Parachutist Badge
578.78 Parachute Rigger Badge
578.79 Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge
578.80 Army Aviator Badge
578.81 Flight Surgeon Badge
578.82 Diver Badge
578.83 Special Operations Diver Badge
578.84 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge
578.85 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge-Basic
578.86 Senior Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge
578.87 Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge
578.88 Pathfinder Badge
578.89 Air Assault Badge
578.90 Aviation Badge
578.91 Aviation Badge-Basic
578.92 Senior Aviation Badge
578.93 Master Aviation Badge
578.94 Driver and Mechanic Badge
578.95 Glider Badge (Rescinded)
578.96 Nuclear Reactor Operator Badge (Rescinded)
578.97 Marksmanship Qualification Badge
578.98 Ranger Tab
578.99 Special Forces Tab
578.100 Sapper Tab
578.101 Physical Fitness Badge
578.102 U.S. Civilian Marksmanship Program
578.103 President's Hundred Tab
578.104 Identification Badges
578.105 Presidential Service Badge and Certificate
578.106 Vice Presidential Service Badge and Certificate
578.107 Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge
578.108 Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge
578.109 Army Staff Identification Badge
578.110 Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge
578.111 Army ROTC Nurse Cadet Program Identification Badge
578.112 Drill Sergeant Identification Badge
578.113 U.S. Army Recruiter Identification Badge
578.114 Career Counselor Badge
578.115 Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Identification
Badge
578.116 U.S. Army Reserve Recruiter Identification Badge
578.117 Foreign and International Decorations and Awards to U.S.
Army Personnel--General
578.118 Individual Foreign Decorations
578.119 Foreign Unit Decorations
578.120 Foreign Badges
578.121 United Nations Service Medal
578.122 Inter-American Defense Board Medal
578.123 Philippine Defense Ribbon
578.124 Philippine Liberation Ribbon
578.125 Philippine Independence Ribbon
578.126 United Nations Medal
578.127 North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal
578.128 Multinational Force and Observers Medal
578.129 Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
578.130 Kuwait Liberation Medal--Saudi Arabia
578.131 Kuwait Liberation Medal--Kuwait
578.132 Republic of Korea War Service Medal
578.133 Certificates for Decorations
578.134 Certificate of Achievement
578.135 Certificate of Appreciation to Employers
578.136 Certificate for Badges
578.137 Cold War Recognition Certificate
Authority: Sec. 3012, Pub. L. 84-1028, 70A Stat. 157; 10 U.S.C.
3013.
Sec. 578.1 Purpose.
The primary purpose of the awards program is to provide tangible
evidence of public recognition for acts of valor and for exceptional
service or achievement. Medals constitute one of the principal forms
for such evidence; in the United States Army, medals are of the
following categories:
(a) Military decorations are awarded on a restricted individual
basis in recognition of and as a reward for heroic, extraordinary,
outstanding, and
[[Page 66604]]
meritorious acts, achievements, and services; and such visible evidence
of recognition is cherished by recipients. Decorations are primarily
intended to recognize acts, achievements, and services in time of war.
(b) The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded in recognition of
exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity during enlisted status in
active Federal military service.
(c) Service medals are awarded generally in recognition of
honorable performance of duty during designated campaigns or conflicts.
Award of decorations, and to a lesser degree, award of the Army Good
Conduct Medal and of service medals, provide a potent incentive to
greater effort, and are instrumental in building and maintaining
morale.
Sec. 578.2 Explanation of terms.
The following definitions are furnished for clarity and uniformity
in the determination and award of decorations:
(a) Above and beyond the call of duty. Exercise of a voluntary
course of action, the omission of which would not justly subject the
individual to censure for failure in the performance of duty. It
usually includes the acceptance of existing danger or extraordinary
responsibilities with praiseworthy fortitude and exemplary courage. In
its highest degrees it involves the voluntary acceptance of additional
danger and risk of life.
(b) Active Federal military service. The term ``active Federal
military service'' means all periods of active duty, Active Guard
Reserve (AGR) service and, except for service creditable for the Armed
Forces Reserve Medal, excludes periods of active duty for training
(ADT) and full-time training duty (FTTD). Service as a cadet at the
United States Military Academy is considered to be active duty for the
purposes of military awards and decorations.
(c) Active Guard Reserve. Army National Guard of the U.S. (ARNGUS)
and U.S. Army Reserve (USAR) personnel serving on active duty (AD)
under 10 U.S.C. and Army National Guard personnel serving on full-time
National Guard duty (FTNGD) under 32 U.S.C. These personnel are on
FTNGD or AD (other than training) for 180 days or more for the purpose
of organizing, administering, recruiting, instructing, or training the
Reserve Components and are paid from National Guard Personnel, Army or
Reserve Personnel Army appropriations.
(d) Area of operation. The foreign territory upon which troops have
actually landed or are present and specifically deployed for the direct
support of the designated military operation; adjacent water areas in
which ships are operating, patrolling, or providing direct support of
operations; and the airspace above and adjacent to the area in which
operations are being conducted.
(e) Award. Recognition given to individuals or units for certain
acts or services, or badges, accolades, emblems, citations,
commendations, streamers, and silver bands. Also an adjectival term
used to identify administrative functions relating to recognition (for
example, awards boards, award recommendations, and so forth).
(f) Award precondition. Any eligibility criterion not specified by
this regulation which must be met before awarding a decoration.
(g) Biographical sketch. Identification of an individual that
includes as a minimum: Full name, Social Security Number (SSN), date
and place of birth, marital status, education, and military service.
(h) Bravery. Quality or state showing courage; level of conduct
which is expected of professional Army soldiers.
(i) Combat heroism. Act or acts of heroism by an individual engaged
in actual conflict with an armed enemy, or in military operations which
involve exposure to personal hazards, due to direct enemy action or the
imminence of such action.
(j) Combat zone. The region where fighting is going on; the forward
area of the theater of operations where combat troops are actively
engaged. It extends from the frontline to the front of the
communications zone.
(k) Decoration. Distinctively designed mark of honor denoting
heroism or meritorious/outstanding service/achievement for individuals
and units.
(l) Direct participation. ``Hands-on'' activity at the site, or
sites, of the military act or operation. The individual must be
physically present at the designated location, having contributed to
and influenced the action.
(m) Direct support. Services being supplied the combat forces in
the area of operations by ground units, ships, and aircraft providing
supplies and equipment to the forces concerned, provided it involves
actually entering the designated area; and ships and aircraft providing
fire, patrol, guard, reconnaissance, or other military support.
(n) Distinguished himself or herself by. A person to have
distinguished himself or herself must, by praiseworthy accomplishment,
be set apart from other persons in the same or similar circumstances.
Determination of this distinction requires careful consideration of
exactly what is or was expected as the ordinary, routine, or customary
behavior and accomplishment for individuals of like rank and experience
for the circumstances involved.
(o) Duty of great responsibility. Duty which, by virtue of the
position held, carries the ultimate responsibility for the successful
operation of a major command, activity, agency, installation, or
project. The discharge of such duty must involve the acceptance and
fulfillment of the obligation so as to greatly benefit the interests of
the United States.
(p) Duty of responsibility. Duty, which by virtue of the positions
held, carries a high degree of the responsibility for the successful
operation of a major command, activity, agency, installation, or
project, or which requires the exercise of judgment and decision
affecting plans, policies, operations, or the lives and well being of
others.
(q) Extraordinary heroism. Act or acts of heroism or gallantry
involving the risk of life. Minimum level of valorous performance in
combat consistent with a recommendation for the Distinguished Service
Cross.
(r) Foreign Decoration. Any order, device, medal, badge, insignia,
emblem or award, tendered by or received from a foreign government.
(s) Foreign government. Includes any unit of a foreign governmental
authority, including any foreign national, State, local and municipal
Government; any international or multinational organization whose
membership is composed of any unit of foreign government described
above; and any agent or representative of any such unit or organization
while acting as such.
(t) Gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life. Fearless
spontaneous conduct at the certain risk of life, above and beyond the
call of duty, which clearly sets the soldier apart from all other
comrades. Minimum level of valorous performance in combat consistent
with a recommendation for the Medal of Honor.
(u) Gallantry in action. Spirited and conspicuous acts of heroism
and courage. Minimum level of valorous performance in combat consistent
with a recommendation for the Silver Star.
(v) Heroism. Extreme courage demonstrated in attaining a noble end.
Varying levels of documented heroic actions are necessary to
substantiate recommendations for the Bronze Star Medal with ``V,'' Air
Medal with ``V,'' and the Army Commendation Medal with ``V.''
[[Page 66605]]
(w) In connection with military operations against an armed enemy.
This phrase covers all military operations including combat, support,
and supply which have a direct bearing on the outcome of an engagement
or engagements against armed opposition. To perform duty or to
accomplish an act of achievement in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy, the individual must have been subjected either
to personal hazard as a result of direct enemy action, or the imminence
of such action, or must have had the conditions under which his duty or
accomplishment took place complicated by enemy action or the imminence
of enemy action.
(x) Key individual. A person who is occupying a position that is
indispensable to an organization, activity, or project.
(y) Medal. A term used to--
(1) Include the three categories of awards, namely: Decorations,
Army Good Conduct Medal, and service medals.
(2) Refer to the distinctive physical device of metal and ribbon
which constitutes the tangible evidence of an award.
(z) Meritorious Achievement. An act which is well above the
expected performance of duty. The act should be an exceptional
accomplishment with a definite beginning and ending date. The length of
time is not a primary consideration; however, speed of accomplishment
of an important task can be a factor in determining the value of an
act.
(aa) Meritorious Service. Service which is distinguished by a
succession of outstanding acts of achievement over a sustained period
of time. Individual performance must exceed that expected by virtue of
grade and experience, based on accomplishments during an entire tour of
duty.
(bb) Military merit. Demonstrated conduct or character deserving of
recognition.
(cc) Officer. Except where expressly indicated otherwise, the word
``officer'' means ``commissioned or warrant officer.''
(dd) Operation. A military action, or the carrying out of a
strategic, tactical, service, training, or administrative military
mission; the process of carrying on combat including movement, supply,
attack, defense, and maneuvers needed to gain the objectives of any
battle or campaign.
(ee) Outstanding or unusually meritorious performance. Performance
of duty determined by the employing component to have contributed to an
unusually significant degree toward the furtherance of good relations
between the United States and the foreign government tendering the
decoration. This requires that the service be of national significance
to the foreign government and that it be performed under exceptionally
difficult, extraordinary, or hazardous conditions.
(ff) Peacetime criteria. (1) In a period when the United States is
not engaged in the prosecution of a formal declared war.
(2) Applied outside a combat zone when the United States is engaged
in military operations against an armed enemy, but is not prosecuting a
formally declared war, except that in the communications zone those
individuals whose duties are in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy may be considered under wartime criteria.
(3) A period in specified areas where U.S. troops are 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.
(gg) Primary next of kin. Primary next of kin are, in order of
precedence, surviving spouse, eldest child, father or mother, eldest
brother or sister, or eldest grandchild.
(hh) Reserve Components of the Army. The Army National Guard of the
United States and the U.S. Army Reserve.
(ii) U.S. Individual Army decorations. U.S. Individual Army
decorations are the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross,
Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit,
Distinguished Flying Cross, Soldier's Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Purple
Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal,
and the Army Achievement Medal.
(jj) U.S. unit decorations. U.S. unit decorations are the
Presidential Unit Citation, Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit
Commendation, and Army Superior Unit Award.
(kk) Valor. Heroism performed under combat conditions.
(ll) Wartime criteria. (1) A period of formally declared war and
for 1 year after the cessation of hostilities.
(2) A period of military operations against an armed enemy and for
1 year after cessation of hostilities. Only those individuals actually
in the combat zone or those in the communications zone whose duties
involve direct control or support of combat operations are to be
considered under wartime criteria.
(3) A period of national emergency declared by the President or by
the Congress.
Sec. 578.3 Display sets of award elements and the Medal of Honor.
(a) Government agencies. Upon approval by the Secretary of the
Army, samples of military decorations may be furnished, without charge,
for one display at the headquarters of each Army and higher field
commander, in the offices of the chiefs of governmental agencies not
under military jurisdiction where opportunity for the public to view
the display is assured, and in each office of Headquarters, Department
of the Army (HQDA) with activities that include matters pertaining to
decorations.
(b) Civilian institutions. Upon approval by the Secretary of the
Army, samples of military decorations may be furnished, at cost price,
to museums, libraries, and to national headquarters of historical,
numismatic, and military societies; and to institutions of such public
nature as will assure an opportunity for the public to view the
exhibits under circumstances beneficial to the Army. All decorations
furnished to civilian institutions for exhibition purposes will be
engraved with the words, ``For Exhibition Purposes only.''
(c) Requests. Letter requests for decorations for exhibit or
display will be made to Commander, U.S. Army Human Resources Command
(USA HRC), ATTN: AHRC-PDO-PA, 200 Stovall Street, Alexandria, VA 22332-
0471.
(d) Display. Service medals for service prior to World War II will
not be provided for display purposes since only minimum essential
quantities are available for issue to authorized recipients.
(e) Purchase of medals. Except for the Medal of Honor, all other
decorations, service medals, and ribbons can be purchased from private
vendors who have been issued a certificate of authority by the
Institute of Heraldry. A list of certified vendors can be obtained from
HQ, USA HRC (see Sec. 578.3 (c)).
(f) Display sets of the Medal of Honor. Upon written requests, The
Adjutant General of the Army can approve issue of a display Medal of
Honor to government agencies (defined in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this
section). Adequate security arrangement must be provided for the medal
so that it will not be lost through vandalism or theft. Maximum
exposure of the medal to the public must be ensured, on a free of
charge basis, under circumstances beneficial to the Army.
[[Page 66606]]
Sec. 578.4 U.S. Military Decorations.
To whom awarded, see Table 1 below.
Table 1
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Awarded for: Awarded to:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Decorations listed in order of Military Civilian
precedence Heroism Achievement or -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
service United States Foreign United States Foreign
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medal of Honor.................. Combat............ N/A............... War (1)........... N/A............... N/A............... N/A.
Distinguished Service Cross..... Combat............ N/A............... War............... War............... N/A............... N/A.
Distinguished Service Medal..... War............... War & Peace....... War & Peace....... War & Peace....... War (2)........... War (2).
Sliver Star..................... Combat............ N/A............... War............... War............... War (2)........... War (2).
Legion of Merit................. N/A............... War & Peace....... War & Peace....... War & Peace (5)... N/A............... N/A.
Distinguished Flying Cross...... Combat Noncombat.. War & Peace (4)... War & Peace....... War............... N/A............... N/A.
Soldier's Medal................. Noncombat......... N/A............... War & Peace (4)... War & Peace (4)... N/A............... N/A.
Bronze Star Medal............... Combat (3)........ War & Peace (4)... War & Peace (4)... War & Peace(4).... N/A............... N/A.
Purple Heart.................... For wounds N/A............... War & Peace (7, 8) N/A............... N/A............... N/A.
received as the
result of hostile
action.
Meritorious Service Medal....... N/A............... Peace & War (9)... Peace............. Peace............. N/A............... N/A.
Air Medal....................... Combat (3) War & Peace (4)... War & Peace (4)... War............... War (2)........... War (2).
Noncombat.
Army Commendation Medal......... Combat (3) War Peace......... War & Peace (6)... War & Peace (6)... N/A............... N/A.
Noncombat.
Army Achievement Medal.......... N/A............... Peace & War (6, 9) Peace (6)......... Peace (6)......... N/A............... N/A.
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Notes:
1. The Medal of Honor is awarded only to U.S. military personnel.
2. Under limited circumstances. Recommendations will be forwarded to HQ, USA HRC for processing.
3. Awarded with Bronze ``V'' Device for valor in combat.
4. Awarded for peacetime when no formal war has been declared but the U.S. is engaged in military operations against an armed enemy.
5. Awarded to foreign military personnel in one of four degrees.
6. Not awarded to general officers.
7. Awarded to military personnel wounded by terrorists or while members of a peacekeeping force.
8. Approval authority is the Secretary of the Army.
9. Authorized for award in a combat theater for non-combat meritorious service and achievement.
Sec. 578.5 Award Recommendations.
(a) It is the responsibility and privilege of any individual having
personal knowledge of an act, achievement, or service believed to
warrant the award of a decoration to submit a recommendation for
consideration. It is usually desirable that the intended recipient not
be informed of a pending recommending or given an implied promise of an
award prior to final approval and clearance. This is especially true
when the intended recipient is a foreigner.
(b) The Department of the Army (DA) Form 638 (Recommendation for
Award) will be used to initiate, process and approve award
recommendations of all U.S. Army individual decorations, to include
valor and heroism decorations.
(c) Narrative description of meritorious service or achievement for
awards of the Meritorious Service Medal (MSM), Army Commendation Medal
(ARCOM), and Army Achievement Medal (AAM) will be limited to bullet
format in the space allowed on the DA Form 638. Bullet format or
narratives may be used for the Legion of Merit (LM). Narratives are
required for all other awards and will be added as an addendum to the
recommendation. Narrative should be prepared on 8\1/2\ by 11-inch bond
paper and is limited to one double-spaced typewritten pages except for
recommendations of the Distinguished Service Medal and above.
Narratives for valor must contain a description of the following
elements: Terrain and weather of the area in which the action took
place; enemy conditions, to include morale, proximity, firepower,
casualties and situation prior to, during and after the act; the effect
of the act on the enemy; the action of comrades in the immediate
vicinity of the act and the degree of their participation in the act;
if the act occurred in aerial flight, the type and position of the
aircraft and the individual's crew position; the degree to which the
act was voluntary; the degree to which the act was outstanding and
exceeded what was normally expected of the individual; all unusual
circumstances; and overall effects or results of the act.
(d) Heroism award recommendations will contain statements of
eyewitnesses, preferably in the form of certificates, affidavits, or
sworn statements; extracts from official records; sketches; maps;
diagrams; photographs; and so forth, which support and amplify stated
facts for the heroism award.
(e) Recommendations will be forwarded through command channels to
the commander authorized to approve or disapprove it. Each intermediate
commander/supervisor will recommend approval or disapproval, and cite
specific reasons whenever disapproval is recommended.
(f) Except for the provisions of 10 U.S.C. 1130 outlined in
paragraph (g) of this section and lost awards, each recommendation for
an award of a military decoration must be entered administratively into
military channels within 2 years of the act, achievement, or service to
be honored. Submission into military channels is defined as ``signed by
the initiating official and
[[Page 66607]]
endorsed by a higher official in the chain of command.''
(g) Pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 1130, a Member of Congress can request
consideration of a proposal for the award or presentation of decoration
(or the upgrading of a decoration), either for an individual or unit,
that is not otherwise authorized to be presented or awarded due to
limitations established by law or policy. Based upon such review, the
Secretary of the Army shall make a determination as to the merits of
approving the award or presentation of the decoration and other
determinations necessary to comply with congressional reporting under
10 U.S.C. 1130.
Sec. 578.6 Wartime Criteria.
Wartime criteria, by whom awarded. The Medal of Honor is awarded
only by the President. Other decorations are awarded by the President,
the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of the Army. When wartime
conditions erupt, authority to further delegate decorations approval
authority will be requested from the Secretary of the Army. Initial
delegation will be requested consistent with the award approval
authority outlined in Table 2 below.
Table 2.--Delegation of Award Approval--Wartime Criteria
[The primary purpose of this table is to outline the various awards and decorations approval authorities for use
during the immediate stages of Army combat operations. Once delegation, this authority is reviewed every 30, 60
or 90 days during combat operations to determine if further delegation is expedient and justified. Wartime
delegation if withdrawn from approval authorities upon redeployment of the unit. This table is not absolute and
is subject to change as necessary by the Secretary of the Army. Award approval levels outlined in Table 3 are
applicable to Table 2.]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Awards Approval authority May further delegate Awarded to
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medal of Honor....................... President of the United N/A.................... U.S. military
States. personnel.
DSC & all lesser decorations......... Secretary of the Army N/A.................... a. U.S. Army Active and
or others as Reserve Component
designated by the personnel.
Secretary of the Army. b. U.S. Navy, Marine
Corps, Air Force, and
Coast Guard personnel
with concurrence of
the appropriate
Service Secretary.
DSC, SS, LM, DFC and SM.............. CG of a U.S. Army Force MG and BG commanders U.S. Army personnel and
(Serving in the rank (BG must be serving in members of the other
of General) (see note MG position), armed services and
1). commanders of separate members of the armed
units, may award the forces of friendly
BSM, AM, and ARCOM foreign nations in the
(see note 2). ranks comparable to
the grade of O-6 (COL)
or lower provided
concurrence is
obtained from that
Service or foreign
government.
BSM, AM, ARCOM....................... Senior Army Commander MG and BG (serving in U.S. Army personnel and
and commanders of a MG positions) members of the armed
separate force serving commanders of separate forces of friendly
in the rank of LTG units, may award the foreign nations in the
(see note 1). BSM, AM and ARCOM (see ranks comparable to
note 2). the grade of 0-6 (COL)
and below, provided
concurrence is
obtained from that
Service or foreign
government.
PH................................... CG of any separate unit To any field grade Member of the Army and
and Hospital commander who has member of other
commanders receiving orders issuing Services provided
casualties. authority. concurrence is
obtained from that
Service.
PUC, VUA, MUC........................ As provided in Sec. Not further delegated.. U.S. units and foreign
578-57; Sec. 578-58 allied units (see Sec.
and Sec. 578-59. 578-57; Sec. 578-
58; and Sec. 578-59.
Campaign Participation Credit........ Senior Army commander Not further delegated.. Only to eligible U.S.
serving in the rank of Army units and RC
LTG or higher. units called to active
duty.
Assault landing Credit............... Senior Army Commander Not further delegated.. Only to eligible U.S.
serving in the rank of Army units and RC
LTG or higher. units called to Active
duty. (DA General
Orders Issued).
Combat Badges........................ Commanding General of To any field grade See Sec. 578.69, Sec.
any separate unit. commander who has 578,70, Sec.
orders issuing 578.71, Sec. 578.72,
authority. Sec. 578-74, Sec.
578-79, Sec. 578-84
and Sec. 578-99 for
specific eligibility
requirements for
combat badges. See
also Table 9 on who
may be awarded these
badges.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. The senior Army commander (SAC) upon arrival in the theater of operations, or as soon thereafter as
practical, will submit a request to CDR, USA HRC (see Sec. 578.3 (c)), requesting this delegation be
activated.
2. Authority to approve award of the ARCOM under wartime criteria may be delegated to Colonel level commanders.
[[Page 66608]]
Sec. 578.7 Peacetime criteria.
Peacetime criteria, by whom awarded. Awards for peacetime service
are made by the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary
of the Army. When peacetime criteria apply, authority to award
decorations is automatically delegated as shown in Table 3 below.
Table 3.--Delegation of Award Approving Authority-Peacetime Criteria
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commanders and principal HQDA
agency officials May award To
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chief of Staff, U.S. Army..... DSM and all All U.S. Army
lesser personnel and
decorations. personnel of other
Services (see note
2).
General....................... LM, MSM, ARCOM, 1. U.S. Army
and AAM. personnel.
2. U.S. Navy, Marine
Corps, and Air Force
Personnel below
brigadier general
attached to their
organizations (see
note 2).
Lieutenant General............ LM............... 1. U.S. Army
personnel upon
retirement or for
posthumous awards
only (except general
grade officers).
MSM, ARCOM, and 2. U.S. Army
AAM. personnel assigned
and attached for
duty to their
command or agency.
3. U.S. Navy, Marine
Corps, and Air Force
Personnel below
brigadier general
attached to their
organizations (see
note 2).
Major General................. LM (see note 1).. 1. U.S. Army
personnel assigned
and attached for
duty to their
command or agency.
MSM, ARCOM, & AAM 2. U.S. Navy, Marine
Corps, and Air Force
Personnel below
brigadier general
attached to their
organizations (see
note 2).
Brigadier General............. MSM, ARCOM, AAM.. 1. U.S. Army
personnel assigned
and attached for
duty to their
command or agency.
2. U.S. Navy, Marine
Corps, and Air Force
Personnel below
brigadier general
attached to their
organizations (see
note 2).
Colonel....................... ARCOM, AAM....... 1. U.S. Army
personnel assigned
and attached for
duty to their
command or agency.
2. U.S. Navy, Marine
Corps, and Air Force
Personnel below
brigadier general
attached to their
organizations (see
note 2).
Lieutenant Colonel............ AAM.............. 1. U.S. Army
personnel assigned
and attached for
duty to their
command.
2. U.S. Navy, Marine
Corps, and Air Force
Personnel below
brigadier general
attached to their
organizations (see
note 2).
Project Managers, Program
Managers, Product Managers,
and Program Executive
Officers:
Major Generals and MSM, ARCOM and Service members
civilian equivalent AAM. assigned to their
Senior Executive Service projects (see note
(SES). 2).
Brigadier Generals and MSM, ARCOM and Service members
civilian equivalent SES. AAM. assigned to their
projects (see note
2).
Colonels and civilian ARCOM and AAM.... Service members
equivalent General assigned to their
Schedule (GS) 15. projects (see note
2).
Lieutenant Colonels....... AAM.............. Service members
assigned to their
projects (see note
2).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
\1\ Major Army commanders and officials of principal HQDA agencies in
the grade of Major General have authority to approve awards of the
Legion of Merit, to retiring and deceased persons, other than general
officers, assigned to their commands or agencies.
\2\ See paragraph 1-36, AR 600-8-22 for instructions on awarding Army
decorations to members of the other U.S. Services.
Sec. 578.8 General Rules.
(a) Awards for civilian service. Awards for DA civilians are
governed by Army Regulation (AR) 672-20, Incentive Awards. AR 672-20
provides implementing instructions for incentive awards, honorary
awards and devices, awards from nonfederal organizations, and medals
for public service.
(b) Posthumous awards. Awards may be made following the death of
the person being honored in the same manner as they are made for a
living person except that the orders and citation will indicate that
the award is being made posthumously. The engraved medal and
certificate will not contain the word posthumous. Orders announcing the
award, together with the certificate, medal, citation and related
documents will be forwarded to the appropriate commander for
presentation. Eligible classes of next of kin are listed in the order
of their precedence in Sec. 578.2 (gg).
(c) Interim awards and awards of a lesser decoration. (1) To ensure
that a deserving act, achievement, or service receives recognition, the
appropriate authority may promptly award a suitable lesser military
decoration pending final action on a recommendation for a higher award,
except for retiring U.S. Army general officers. When a higher award is
approved, the approving authority will revoke the interim award in the
same orders published for the higher award. The decoration will be
returned by the recipient, unless the higher award is approved
posthumously, in which case the next of kin will be permitted to retain
both awards.
(2) The authority taking final action may award the decoration
recommended, award a lesser decoration (or consider the interim award
as adequate recognition), or in the absence of an interim award,
disapprove award of any decoration.
(d) Duplication of awards. (1) Only one decoration will be awarded
to an individual or unit for the same act, achievement, or period of
meritorious service.
(2) The award of a decoration in recognition of a single act of
heroism or meritorious achievement does not preclude an award for
meritorious service at the termination of an
[[Page 66609]]
assignment. Recommendations for award of a decoration for meritorious
service will not refer to acts of heroism or meritorious achievements,
which have been previously recognized by award or decoration.
(3) Continuation of the same or similar type service already
recognized by an award for meritorious service or achievement will not
be the basis for a second award. If appropriate, an award may be made
to include the extended period of service by superseding the earlier
award, or the award previously made be amended to incorporate the
extended period service.
(e) Conversion of awards. Awards of certain decorations (Silver
Star, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Army Commendation Medal) on
the basis of existing letters, certificates, and/or orders, as
hereinafter authorized will be made only upon letter application of the
individuals concerned to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC),
9700 Page Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100 (Soldiers who retired or
were discharged on or after October 1, 2002 should send their requests
to the Commander, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, St. Louis, ATTN:
AHRC-CC-B, 1 Reserve Way, St. Louis, MO 63132-5200).
(f) Character of service. No decoration shall be awarded or
presented to any individual whose entire service subsequent to the time
of the distinguished act, achievement, or service shall not have been
honorable. The Act of July 9, 1918 (40 Stat. 871) as amended (10 U.S.C.
1409); the Act of July 2, 1926 (44 Stat. 789), as amended (10 U.S.C.
1429)
(g) Time limitations. (1) Except for the provisions of 10 U.S.C.
1130 and lost awards addressed below, each recommendation for an award
of a military decoration must be entered administratively into military
channels within 2 years of the act, achievement, or service to be
honored. Submission into military channels is defined as ``signed by
the initiating official and endorsed by a higher official in the chain
of command.''
(2) Pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 1130, a Member of Congress can request
consideration of a proposal for the award or presentation of decoration
(or the upgrading of a decoration), either for an individual or unit,
that is not otherwise authorized to be presented or awarded due to
limitations established by law or policy. Based upon such review, the
Secretary of the Army shall make a determination as to the merits of
approving the award or presentation of the decoration and other
determinations necessary to comply with congressional reporting under
10 U.S.C. 1130.
(3) To be fully effective, an award must be timely. Undue delay in
submitting a recommendation may preclude its consideration. It is
highly desirable that a recommendation be placed in military channels
and acted upon as quickly as possible. If circumstances preclude
submission of a completely documented recommendation, it is best to
submit it as soon as possible and note that additional data will be
submitted later. However, to ensure prompt recognition, interim awards
should be considered and are encouraged as addressed above.
(4) No military decoration, except the Purple Heart and exceptions
for decorations approved under 10 U.S.C. 1130, will be awarded more
than 3 years after the act or period of service to be honored.
(5) These time limitations do not apply to retroactive and
conversion awards made in confirmation of recognition of previously
issued orders, letters, or certificates or in exchange of decorations
hereinafter authorized.
(6) In cases where it can be conclusively proven that formal
submission of a recommendation for award was not made within the time
limitations indicated above, because either the person recommending or
the person being recommended was in a prisoner of war (POW), missing in
action (MIA) or in a medically incapacitated status, award of the
Silver Star or lesser decorations may be approved without regard to
elapsed time since the act, achievement, or service occurred, that is
to be honored.
(7) If the Secretary of the Army determines that a statement
setting forth the distinguished act, achievement, or service, and a
recommendation for official recommendation recognition was made and
supported by sufficient evidence within 2 years after the distinguished
service, and that no award was made because the statement was lost, or
through inadvertence the recommendation was not acted upon; he or she
may, within 2 years after the date of the determination, award any
appropriate military decoration. In each case, the following will be
provided:
(i) Conclusive evidence of the formal submission of the
recommendation into military channels.
(ii) Conclusive evidence of the loss of the recommendation or the
failure to act on the recommendation through inadvertence.
(iii) A copy of the original recommendation, or its substantive
equivalent. As a minimum, the recommendation should be accompanied by
statements, certificates, or affidavits corroborating the events or
services involved. It is emphasized that the proponent must provide
Commander, USA HRC (see Sec. 578.3(c)), with adequate information for
Secretarial evaluation of the deed or service to determine if an award
is to be made. The person signing a reconstructed award recommendation
must be identified clearly in terms of his or her official relationship
to the intended recipient at the time of the act or during the period
of service to be recognized.
(h) U.S. awards to foreign military personnel. (1) It is the
Department of Defense (DOD) policy to recognize individual acts of
heroism, extraordinary achievement or meritorious achievement on the
part of service members of friendly foreign nations when such acts have
been of significant benefit to the United States or materially
contributed to the successful prosecution of a military campaign by
Armed Forces of the United States. Such acts or achievement shall be
recognized through the award of an individual U.S. decoration.
(2) U.S. campaign and service medals shall not be awarded to
members of foreign military establishments.
(3) Foreign military personnel in ranks comparable to the grade of
O-6 and below, at the time the act was performed and at the time the
decoration is presented, may be awarded the following decorations:
Silver Star; Distinguished Flying Cross; Bronze Star Medal; or the Air
Medal for valorous acts in actual combat in direct support of military
operation; the Soldier's Medal, for heroic acts in direct support of
operations, but not involving actual combat; and the Legion of Merit
(see Sec. 578.13 for the Legion of Merit to foreign military
personnel).
(i) Announcement of awards. (1) Decorations and the Army Good
Conduct Medal.
(i) Awards made by the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the
Secretary of the Army will be announced in DA General Orders (DAGO).
(ii) Awards of decorations and the Army Good Conduct Medal made by
principal HQDA officials will be announced in permanent orders.
(iii) Awards of decorations and the Army Good Conduct Medal made
according to delegated authority will be announced in permanent orders
by the commanders authorized to make the awards.
(2) Service medals and service ribbons. Service medals and service
ribbons are administratively awarded to
[[Page 66610]]
individuals who meet the qualifying criteria. Orders are not required.
(3) Badges. Permanent awards of badges, except basic marksmanship
qualification badges, identification badges, and the Physical Fitness
Badge will be announced in permanent orders by commanders authorized to
make the award or permanent orders of HQDA.
(j) Engraving of awards. The grade, name, and organization of the
awardee are engraved on the reverse of the Medal of Honor. The name
only of the awardee is engraved on the reverse side of every other
decoration, the POW Medal and the Army Good Conduct Medal. Normally
engraving will be accomplished prior to presentation. When this is
impracticable, the awardee will be informed that he or she may mail the
decoration or Army Good Conduct Medal to the Commander, U.S. Army
TACOM, Clothing and Heraldry Product Support Integration Directorate
(PSID), P.O. Box 57997, Philadelphia, PA 19111-7997, for engraving at
Government expense.
(k) Presentation of decorations. (1) The Medal of Honor is usually
presented to living awardees by the President of the United States at
the White House. Posthumous presentation to the next of kin normally is
made in Washington, DC by the President or his or her personal
representative.
(2) Other U.S. military decorations will be presented with an
appropriate air of formality and with fitting ceremony.
(3) Foreign decorations will not be presented by members of the
U.S. Army to designated recipients whether awardees or next of kin.
(4) Conversion awards, service medals, and service ribbons usually
are not presented with formal ceremony. However, such presentation may
be made at the discretion of the local commander.
(5) Whenever practical, badges will be presented to military
personnel in a formal ceremony as provided in Field Manual (FM) 3-21.5.
Presentations should be made as promptly as practical following
announcement of awards, and when possible, in the presence of the
troops with whom the recipients were serving at the time of the
qualification.
(6) Presentation of the Army Good Conduct Medal to military
personnel may be made at troop formations. (See FM 3-21.5.) Ceremonies
will not be conducted to present the Army Good Conduct Medal to former
military personnel or next of kin.
(7) The Army Lapel Button will be formally presented at troop
formations or other suitable ceremonies. The U.S. Army Retired Lapel
Button will be presented at an appropriate ceremony prior to their
departure for retirement. These buttons may be presented to a
separating soldier at the same time as the Army Good Conduct Medal and
any other approved decoration.
(l) Act of presentation. In the act of presentation, a decoration
may be pinned on the clothing of the awardee whether in uniform or
civilian clothing or on the next-of-kin in the case of a presentation
following the recipient's death; however, this will not be construed as
authority to wear the decoration for any person other than the
individual honored. As an alternative to pinning the decoration,
especially on next-of-kin, it may be handed to the recipient in an
opened decoration container.
Sec. 578.9 Medal of Honor.
(a) Criteria. The Medal of Honor (10 U.S.C. 3741) was established
by Joint Resolution of Congress, July 12, 1962 (amended by Act of July
9, 1918 and Act of July 25, 1963) is awarded by the President in the
name of Congress to a person who, while a member of the Army,
distinguished himself or herself conspicuously by gallantry and
intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty
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. The deed performed must have been
one of personal bravery or self-sacrifice so conspicuous as to clearly
distinguish the individual above his 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.
Eligibility is limited to members of the Army of the United States in
active Federal military service.
(b) Description. A gold-finished bronze star, one point down, 1\9/
16\ inches in diameter with rays terminating in trefoils, surrounded by
a laurel wreath in green enamel, suspended by two links from a bar
bearing the inscription ``Valor'' and surmounted by an eagle grasping
laurel leaves in one claw and arrows in the other. In the center of the
star is the head of Minerva surrounded by the inscription ``United
States of America.'' Each ray of the star bears an oak leaf in green
enamel. On the reverse of the bar are stamped the words ``The Congress
To.'' The medal is suspended by a hook to a ring fastened behind the
eagle. The hook is attached to a light-blue moired silk neckband, 1\3/
16\ inches in width and 21\3/4\ inches in length, behind a square pad
in the center made of the ribbon with the corners turned in. On the
ribbon bar are 13 white stars arranged in the form of a triple chevron,
consisting of two chevrons of 5 stars and one chevron of 3 stars. A
hexagonal rosette of light-blue ribbon \1/2\ inch circumscribing
diameter, with a fan-shaped ribbon insert showing white stars, is
included for wear on civilian clothing.
(c) Medal of Honor Roll. The Medal of Honor Roll was established by
Act of Congress, April 27, 1916, as amended by 38 U.S.C. 1562. It
provides that each Medal of Honor awardee may have his or her name
entered on the Medal of Honor Roll. Each person whose name is placed on
the Medal of Honor Roll is certified to the Veterans Administration as
being entitled to receive a special pension of $1000 per month for
life, if the person desires. Payment will be made by the Veterans
Administration beginning as of the date of application thereof (38
U.S.C. 1562). The payment of this special pension is in addition to,
and does not deprive the pensioner of any other pension, benefit,
right, or privilege to which he or she is or may thereafter be
entitled. The awardee will submit a DD Form 1369 (Application for
Enrollment on the Medal of Honor Roll and for the Pension Authorized by
the Act of Congress) to have his or her name placed on the Medal of
Honor Roll and to receive the special pension. The application will
bear the full personal signature of the awardee, or in cases where the
awardee cannot sign due to disability or incapacity, the signature of
the awardee's legally designated representative, and be forwarded to
Commander, USA HRC (see Sec. 578.3(c)). Applicant will receive a DD
Form 1370A (Certificate of Enrollment on the Medal of Honor Roll).
(d) Additional benefits. (1) Supplemental uniform allowance.
Enlisted recipients of the Medal of Honor are entitled to a
supplemental uniform allowance. (See AR 700-84.)
(2) Air transportation for Medal of Honor awardees. (See DOD
Regulation 4515.13-R.)
(3) Commissary privileges for Medal of Honor recipients and their
eligible family members. (See AR 600-8-14.)
(4) Identification cards for Medal of Honor recipients and their
eligible family members. (See AR 600-8-14.)
(5) Admission to U.S. Service Academies. Children of Medal of Honor
awardees, otherwise qualified, are not
[[Page 66611]]
subject to quota requirements for admission to any of the U.S. Service
Academies. (See U.S. Service Academies annual catalogs.)
(6) Exchange privileges for Medal of Honor recipients and their
eligible family members. (See AR 600-8-14.)
(7) Burial honors for Medal of Honor recipients are identical to
those who become deceased while on active duty. (See AR 600-8-1 and AR
600-25.)
Sec. 578.10 Distinguished Service Cross.
(a) Criteria. The Distinguished Service Cross was established by
Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by Act of July 25, 1963), 10
U.S.C. 3742. It is awarded to a person who, while serving in any
capacity with the Army, distinguishes himself or herself by
extraordinary heroism not justifying the award of a Medal of Honor
while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States; while
engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing
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 act or acts of heroism must have
been so notable and have involved risk of life so extraordinary as to
set the individual apart from his comrades.
(b) Description. A cross of bronze 2 inches in height and 1\13/16\
inches in width with an eagle on the center and a scroll below the
eagle bearing the inscription ``For Valor.'' On the reverse, the center
of the cross is circled by a wreath. The cross is suspended by a ring
from moired silk ribbon, 1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in
width, composed of a band of red (\1/8\-inch), white (\1/16\-inch),
blue (1-inch), white (\1/16\-inch), and red (\1/8\-inch). (Sec. 3742,
70A Stat. 215; 10 U.S.C. 3742).
Sec. 578.11 Distinguished Service Medal.
(a) Criteria. (1) The Distinguished Service Medal was established
by Act of Congress on July 9, 1918 (10 U.S.C. 3743). It is awarded to
any person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Army, has
distinguished himself or herself by exceptionally meritorious service
to the Government in a duty of great responsibility. The performance
must be such as to merit recognition for service which is clearly
exceptional. Exceptional performance of normal duty will not alone
justify an award of this decoration.
(2) For service not related to actual war the term ``duty of great
responsibility'' applies to a narrower range of positions than in time
of war and requires evidence of conspicuously significant achievement.
However, justification of the award may accrue by virtue of
exceptionally meritorious service in a succession of high positions of
great importance.
(3) Awards may be made to persons other than members of the Armed
Forces of the United States for wartime services only, and then only
under exceptional circumstances with the express approval of the
President, in each case.
(b) Description. The coat of arms of the United States in bronze
surrounded by a circle of dark-blue enamel 1\1/2\ inches in diameter,
bearing the inscription ``For Distinguished Service MCMXVIII.'' On the
reverse, a blank scroll upon a trophy of flags and weapons. The medal
is suspended by a bar from a moired silk ribbon, 1\3/8\ inches in
length and 1\3/8\ inches in width, composed of a bank of scarlet (\5/
8\-inch), a stripe of dark-blue (\1/16\-inch), a band of white (\5/8\-
inch), a stripe of dark-blue (\1/16\-inch), and a band of scarlet (\5/
16\-inch). (Sec. 3743, 70A Stat. 216; 10 U.S.C. 3743).
Sec. 578.12 Silver Star.
(a) Criteria. The Silver Star was established by Act of Congress
July 9, 1918 (amended by Act of July 25, 1963, 10 U.S.C. 3746). It 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 an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which
the United States is not a belligerent party. The required gallantry,
while of lesser degree than that required for the Distinguished Service
Cross, must nevertheless have been performed with marked distinction.
It is also awarded upon letter application to Commander, USA HRC (see
Sec. 578.3 (c)), to those individuals who, while serving in any
capacity with the U.S. Army, received a citation for gallantry in
action in World War I published in orders issued by a headquarters
commanded by a general officer.
(b) Description. A bronze star 1\1/2\ inches in circumscribing
diameter. In the center thereof is a \3/16\-inch diameter raised silver
star, the center lines of all rays of both stars coinciding. The
reverse has the inscription ``For Gallantry in Action.'' The star is
suspended by a rectangular-shaped metal loop with corners rounded from
a moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in
width, composed of stripes of blue (\3/32\-inch), white (\3/64\-inch),
blue (\7/32\-inch), white (\7/32\-inch), red (\7/32\-inch), white (\7/
32\-inch), blue (\7/32\-inch), white (\3/64\-inch), and blue (\3/32\-
inch). (Sec. 3746, 70A Stat. 216; 10 U.S.C. 3746).
Sec. 578.13 Legion of Merit.
The Legion of Merit was established by Act of Congress July 20,
1942 (10 U.S.C. 1121). It is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces
of the United States or of a friendly foreign nation who has
distinguished himself or herself by exceptionally meritorious conduct
in the performance of outstanding services and achievement.
(a) Criteria for members of Armed Forces of the United States. The
performance must have been such as to merit recognition of key
individuals for service rendered in a clearly exceptional manner.
Performance of duties normal to the grade, branch, specialty, or
assignment, and experience of an individual is not an adequate basis
for this award.
(b) For service not related to actual war, the term ``key
individuals'' applies to a narrower range of positions than in time of
war and requires evidence of significant achievement. In peacetime,
service should be in the nature of a special requirement or of an
extremely difficult duty performed in an unprecedented and clearly
exceptional manner. However, justification of the award may accrue by
virtue of exceptionally meritorious service in a succession of
important positions.
(c) Awards will be made without reference to degree.
(d) Criteria for members of the Armed Forces of foreign nations.
The LM in the degrees described below, may be awarded to foreign
military personnel who distinguish themselves by ``exceptional
meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding service'' to the
United States in accordance with Executive Order (E.O.) 9260.
(e) The LM awarded to members of the Armed Forces of foreign
nations is awarded in the following degrees:
(1) Chief Commander: A domed five-pointed American white star
plaque of heraldic form bordered in purplish-red enamel 2\15/16\ inches
circumscribing diameter with 13 white stars on a blue field emerging
from a circle of clouds; backing the star, a laurel wreath with
pierced, crossed arrows pointing outward between each arm of the star
and the wreath. The reverse is engraved with the words ``United States
of America.''
(2) Commander: A five-pointed American white star of heraldic form
bordered in purplish-red enamel 2\1/4\-inches circumscribing diameter
with 13 white stars on a blue field emerging
[[Page 66612]]
from a circle of clouds; backing the star, a laurel wreath with
pierced, crossed arrows pointing outward between each arm of the star
and the wreath. A bronze wreath connects an oval suspension ring to a
neck ribbon. The reverse of the five-pointed star is enameled in white
bordered in purplish-red enamel; in the center is a disk surrounded by
the words ``Annuit Coeptis'' and ``MDCCLXXXII,'' and on the scroll are
the words ``United States of America.'' The moired silk neck ribbon is
21\1/4\ inches in length and 1\15/16\ inches in width composed of a
bank of purplish-red (1\13/16\-inches) with edges of white (\1/16\-
inch).
(3) Officer: A five-pointed American white star of heraldic form
bordered in purplish-red enamel 1\7/8\-inches circumscribing diameter
with 13 white stars on a blue field emerging from a circle of clouds;
backing the star, a laurel wreath with modeled, crossed arrows pointing
outward between each arm of the star and the wreath, and an all-bronze
device of the same design as the pendant \3/4\ inch in diameter on the
center of the suspension ribbon. On the reverse is a disk surrounded by
the words ``Annuit Coeptis'' and ``MDCCLXXXII,'' and on the scroll are
the words ``United States of America.'' The pendant is suspended by a
moired silk ribbon 1\7/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in width,
composed of a bank of purplish-red (1\1/4\-inches) with edges of white
(\1/16\-inch).
(4) Legionnaire: Same as prescribed in paragraph (e)(3) of this
section, except the all-bronze device is not worn on the ribbon. (Sec.
1121, 70A Stat. 88; 10 U.S.C. 1121, E.O. 9260, October 29, 1942, 7 FR
8819, 3 CFR, 1943 Cum. Supp.)
Sec. 578.14 Distinguished Flying Cross.
(a) Criteria. The Distinguished Flying Cross was established by Act
of Congress July 2, 1926, (10 U.S.C. 3749). It is awarded to any person
who, while serving in any capacity with the Army of the United States,
distinguished himself or herself by heroism or extraordinary
achievement while participating in aerial flight. The performance of
the act of heroism must be evidenced by voluntary action above and
beyond the call of duty. The extraordinary achievement must have
resulted in an accomplishment so exceptional and outstanding as to
clearly set the individual apart from his comrades, or from other
persons in similar circumstances. Awards will be made only to recognize
single acts of heroism or extraordinary achievement and will not be
made in recognition of sustained operational activities against an
armed enemy.
(b) Description. On a bronze 1\1/2\-inch cross pattee, a four-
bladed propeller 1\11/16\ inches across the blades; in the reentrant
angles, rays forming a 1-inch square. The cross is suspended by a
plain, straight link from a moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length
and 1\3/8\ inches in width, composed of stripes of blue (\7/64\-
inches), white (\9/64\-inch), blue (\11/32\-inch), white (\3/64\-inch),
red (\3/32\-inch), white (\3/64\-inch), blue (\11/32\-inch), white (\9/
64\-inch), and blue (\7/64\-inch). (Sec. 3749, 70A Stat. 217; 10 U.S.C.
3749, E.O. 4601, March 1, 1927, as amended by E.O. 7786, January 8,
1938, 3 FR 39).
Sec. 578.15 Soldier's Medal.
(a) Criteria. The Soldier's Medal was established by Act of
Congress July 2, 1926, (10 U.S.C. 3750). It 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,
including Reserve Component soldiers not serving in a duty status, as
defined in 10 U.S.C. 101(d), at the time of the heroic act, who
distinguished himself or herself by heroism not involving actual
conflict with an enemy. The same degree of heroism is required as that
for an 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.
(b) Description. On a 1\3/8\-inch 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 ``U.S.'' supported
by sprays of laurel and oak, around the upper edge the inscription
``Soldier's Medal,'' and across the face the words ``For Valor.'' The
medal is suspended by a rectangular-shaped metal loop with corners
rounded from a moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\
inches in width, composed of two outside stripes of blue (\3/8\-inch),
the center containing 13 white and red stripes of equal width (7 white
and 6 red). (Sec. 3750, 70A Stat. 217; 10 U.S.C. 3750).
Sec. 578.16 Bronze Star Medal.
(a) Criteria. The Bronze Star Medal was established by Executive
Order 9419, February 4, 1944 (superseded by E.O. 11046, August 24,1962
and amended by 10 U.S.C. 1133). It is awarded to any person who, while
serving in any capacity in or with the Army of the United States after
December 7, 1941, distinguished himself or herself by heroic or
meritorious achievement or service, not involving participation in
aerial flight, 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. Per 10 U.S.C. 1133, award of the Bronze Star Medal is limited to
members of the Armed Forces of the United States who receive imminent
danger pay.
(1) Heroism. 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.
(2) Meritorious achievement and service. Awards may be made to
recognize single acts of merit and meritorious service. The lesser
degree than that required for the award of the LM, must nevertheless
have been meritorious and accomplished with distinction.
(3) Awards may be made, by letter application to NPRC, 9700 Page
Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100 (Soldiers who retired or were
discharged after October 1, 2002 should send their requests to the
Commander, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, St. Louis, ATTN: AHRC-CC-
B, 1 Reserve Way, St. Louis, MO 63132-5200), enclosing documentary
evidence, if possible, to each member of the Armed Forces of the United
States who, after December 6, 1941, has been cited in orders or awarded
a certificate for exemplary conduct in ground combat against an armed
enemy between December 7, 1941 and September 2, 1945, inclusive, or
whose meritorious achievement has been other wise confirmed by
documents executed prior to July 1, 1947. For this purpose, an award of
the Combat Infantryman Badge or Medical Badge is considered as a
citation in orders. Documents executed since August 4, 1944 in
connection with recommendations for the award of decorations of higher
degree than the Bronze Star Medal will not be used to establish a basis
for the award under this paragraph.
(4) Upon letter application, award of the Bronze Star Medal may be
made to eligible soldiers who participated in the Philippine Islands
Campaign between December 7, 1941 to May 10, 1942. Performance of duty
must have been on the island of Luzon or the Harbor Defenses in
Corregidor and Bataan. Only soldiers who were awarded the
[[Page 66613]]
Distinguished Unit Citation (redesignated the Presidential Unit
Citation on November 3, 1966) may be awarded this decoration. Letter
application should be sent to NPRC (see paragraph (a)(3) of this
section).
(b) Description. A bronze star 1\1/2\ inches in circumscribing
diameter. In the center thereof is a \3/16\-inch diameter raised bronze
star, the center line of all rays of both stars coinciding. The reverse
has the inscription ``Heroic or Meritorious Achievement.'' The star is
suspended by a rectangular-shaped loop with corners rounded from a
moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in width,
composed of stripes of white (\1/32\-inch), red (\9/16\-inch), white
(\1/32\-inch), blue (\1/8\-inch), white ( \/32\-inch), red (\9/16\-
inch), and white (\1/32\-inch). A bronze block letter ``V'' \1/4\ inch
in height with serifs at the top of the members is worn on the
suspension and service ribbons of the Bronze Star Medal to denote an
award made for heroism (valor). Not more than one ``V'' device will be
worn. When one or more oak-leaf clusters appear on the same ribbon the
``V'' device is worn on the wearer's right. (E.O. 9419, February 4,
1944, 9 FR 1495).
Sec. 578.17 Purple Heart.
(a) Criteria. The Purple Heart was established by General George
Washington at Newburgh, New York, on August 7, 1782, during the
Revolutionary War. It was reestablished by the President of the United
States per War Department General Orders (WDGO) 3, 1932 and is
currently awarded pursuant to Executive Order 11016, April 25, 1962;
Executive Order 12464, February 23, 1984; Public Law 98-525, October
19, 1984. Public Law 103-160, November 30, 1993; Public Law 104-106,
February 10, 1996; and Public Law 105-85, November 18, 1997. It is
awarded in the name of the President of the United States to any member
of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving under
competent authority in any capacity with one of the U.S. Armed Services
after April 5, 1917 who 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 March 28, 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 Army,
or jointly by the Secretaries of the separate armed services concerned
if persons from more than one service are wounded in the attack.
(7) After March 28, 1973, as a result of military operations while
serving outside the territory of the United States as part of a
peacekeeping force.
(b) While clearly an individual decoration, the Purple Heart
differs from all other decorations in that an individual is not
``recommended'' for the decoration; rather he or she is entitled to it
upon meeting specific criteria.
(1) A Purple Heart is authorized for the first wound suffered under
conditions indicated above, but for each subsequent award an Oak Leaf
Cluster will be awarded to be worn on the medal or ribbon. Not more
than one award will be made for more than one wound or injury received
at the same instant or from the same missile, force, explosion, or
agent.
(2) A wound is defined as an injury to any part of the body from an
outside force or agent sustained under one or more of the conditions
listed above. A physical lesion is not required, however, the wound for
which the award is made must have required treatment by a medical
officer and records of medical treatment for wounds or injuries
received in action must have been made a matter of official record.
(3) When contemplating an award of this decoration, the key issue
that commanders must take into consideration is the degree to which the
enemy caused the injury. The fact that the proposed recipient was
participating in direct or indirect combat operations is a necessary
prerequisite, but is not sole justification for award.
(4) Examples of enemy-related injuries which clearly justify award
of the Purple Heart are as follows:
(i) Injury caused by enemy bullet, shrapnel, or other projectile
created by enemy action.
(ii) Injury caused by enemy placed mine or trap.
(iii) Injury caused by enemy released chemical, biological, or
nuclear agent.
(iv) Injury caused by vehicle or aircraft accident resulting from
enemy fire.
(v) Concussion injuries caused as a result of enemy generated
explosions.
(5) Examples of injuries or wounds which clearly do not qualify for
award of the Purple Heart are as follows:
(i) Frostbite or trench foot injuries.
(ii) Heat stroke.
(iii) Food poisoning not caused by enemy agents.
(iv) Chemical, biological, or nuclear agents not released by the
enemy.
(v) Battle fatigue.
(vi) Disease not directly caused by enemy agents.
(vii) Accidents, to include explosive, aircraft, vehicular, and
other accidental wounding not related to or caused by enemy action.
(viii) Self-inflicted wounds, except when in the heat of battle,
and not involving gross negligence.
(ix) Post traumatic stress disorders.
(x) Jump injuries not caused by enemy action.
(6) It is not intended that such a strict interpretation of the
requirement for the wound or injury to be caused by direct result of
hostile action be taken that it would preclude the award being made to
deserving personnel. Commanders must also take into consideration the
circumstances surrounding an injury, even if it appears to meet the
criteria. Note the following examples:
(i) In a case such as an individual injured while making a
parachute landing from an aircraft that had been brought down by enemy
fire; or, an individual injured as a result of a vehicle accident
caused by enemy fire, the decision will be made in favor of the
individual and the award will be made.
(ii) Individuals injured as a result of their own negligence; for
example, driving or walking through an unauthorized area known to have
been mined or placed off limits or searching for or picking up
unexploded munitions as war souvenirs, will not be awarded the Purple
Heart as they clearly were not injured as a result of enemy action, but
rather by their own negligence.
(7) Members killed or wounded in action by friendly fire, 10 U.S.C.
1129.
(i) For purposes of award of the Purple Heart, the Secretary of the
Army shall treat a member of the Armed Forces described in paragraph
(a) of this section in the same manner as a member who is killed or
wounded in action as the result of an act of an enemy of the United
States.
(ii) A member described in this subsection is a member who is
killed or wounded in action by weapon fire while directly engaged in
armed conflict, other than as the result of an act of an enemy of the
United States, unless (in the case of a wound) the wound is the result
of willful misconduct of the member.
[[Page 66614]]
(iii) This section applies to members of the Armed Forces who are
killed or wounded on or after December 7, 1941. In the case of a member
killed or wounded, as described in paragraph (b) of this section, on or
after December 7, 1941 and before November 30, 1993, the Secretary of
the Army shall award the Purple Heart under provisions of paragraph (a)
of this section in each case which is known to the Secretary before
such date or for which an application is made to the Secretary in such
manner as the Secretary requires.
(c) A Purple Heart will be issued to the next of kin of each person
entitled to a posthumous award. Issue will be made automatically by the
CG, USA HRC, upon receiving a report of death indicating entitlement.
(d) Upon written application to NPRC (see Sec. 578.16 (a)(3))
award may be made to any member of the Army, who during World War I,
was awarded a Meritorious Service Citation Certificate signed by the
Commander in Chief, American Expeditionary Forces, or who was
authorized to wear wound chevrons. Posthumous awards to personnel who
were killed or died of wounds after April 5, 1917 will be made to the
appropriate next of kin upon application to the CG, USA HRC (see Sec.
578.3(c) for address).
(e) Any member of the Army who was awarded the Purple Heart for
meritorious achievement or service, as opposed to wounds received in
action, between December 7, 1941 and September 22, 1943, may apply for
award of an appropriate decoration instead of the Purple Heart.
(f) For those who became Prisoners of War during World War II, the
Korean War and after April 25, 1962, the Purple Heart will be awarded
to individuals wounded while prisoners of foreign forces, upon
submission by the individual to the Department of the U.S. Army of an
affidavit that is supported by a statement from a witness, if this is
possible. Documentation and inquiries should be directed to Commander,
USA HRC (see Sec. 578.3(c) for address).
(g) Any member of the U.S. Army who believes that he or she is
eligible for the Purple Heart, but through unusual circumstances no
award was made, may submit an application through military channels, to
Commander, USA HRC (see Sec. 578.3(c) for address). Application will
include complete documentation, to include evidence of medical
treatment, pertaining to the wound.
(h) Description. On a purple heart within a bronze border, a
profile head in relief of General George Washington in military
uniform. Above the heart is a shield of General Washington's coat of
arms between two sprays of leaves in green enamel. On the reserve below
the shield and leaves without enamel is a raised bronze heart with the
inscription ``For Military Merit.'' The entire device is 1\11/16\
inches in length. The medal is suspended by a rectangular-shaped loop
with corners rounded from a moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length
and 1\3/8\ inches in width consisting of a purple (pansy) center with
white edges (\1/8\-inch).
Sec. 578.18 Meritorious Service Medal.
(a) Criteria. The Meritorious Service Medal was established by
Executive Order 11448, January 16, 1969 as amended by Executive Order
12312, July 2, 1981. It is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of
the United States or to any member of the Armed Forces of a friendly
foreign nation who, has distinguished himself or herself by outstanding
meritorious achievement or service under the following circumstances:
(1) After January 16, 1969, for meritorious service or achievement
while serving in a non-combat area.
(2) On or after September 11, 2001, for outstanding non-combat
meritorious achievement or service in a non-combat or combat area.
(b) Description. A Bronze medal, 1\1/2\ inches in diameter overall,
consisting of six rays issuant from the upper three points of a five-
pointed star with beveled edges and containing two smaller stars
defined by incised outlines; in front of the lower part of the star an
eagle with wings upraised standing upon two upward curving branches of
laurel tied with a ribbon between the feet of the eagle. The reverse
has the encircled inscriptions ``UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'' and
``MERITORIOUS SERVICE''. The moired ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and
consists of the following stripes: \1/8\ inch Crimson 67112; \1/4\ inch
White 67101; center \5/8\ inch Crimson; \1/4\ inch White; and \1/8\
inch Crimson.
Sec. 578.19 Air Medal.
(a) Criteria. The Air Medal was established by Executive Order
9158, May 11, 1942 as amended by Executive Order 9242-A, September 11,
1942. It is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity in
or with the U.S. Army, has distinguished himself or herself by
meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. Awards
may be made to recognize single acts of merit or heroism, or for
meritorious service as described.
(1) 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.
(2) Awards may be made for single acts 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.
(3) Awards for meritorious service may be made for sustained
distinction in the performance of duties involving regular and frequent
participation in aerial flight for a period of at least 6 months. In
this regard, accumulation of a specified number of hours and missions
will not serve as the basis for award of the Air Medal. Criteria in
Sec. 578.19(a)(1), concerning conditions of conflict are applicable to
award of the Air Medal for meritorious service.
(4) Award of the Air Medal is primarily intended to recognize those
personnel who are on current crewmember or non-crewmember flying status
which requires them to participate in aerial flight on a regular and
frequent basis in the performance of their primary duties. However, it
may also be awarded to certain other individuals whose combat duties
require regular and frequent flying in other than a passenger status,
or individuals who perform a particularly noteworthy act while
performing the function of a crewmember, but who are not on flying
status as prescribed in AR 600-106. These individuals must make a
discernible contribution to the operational land combat mission or to
the mission of the aircraft in flight. Examples of personnel whose
combat duties require them to fly include those in the attack elements
of units involved in air-land assaults against an armed enemy and those
directly involved in airborne command and control of combat operations.
Involvement in such activities, normally at the brigade/group level and
below, serves only to establish eligibility for award of the Air Medal;
the degree of heroism, meritorious achievement or exemplary service
determines who should receive the award. Awards will not be made to
individuals who use air transportation solely for the purpose of moving
from point to point in a combat zone.
(5) Numerals, starting with 2 will be used to denote second and
subsequent awards of the Air Medal.
(b) Description. A bronze compass rose 1\11/16\-inches
circumscribing diameter suspended by the pointer and
[[Page 66615]]
charged with an eagle volant carrying two lightning flashes in its
talons. The points of the compass rose on the reverse are modeled with
the central portion plain. The medal is suspended from a moired silk
ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in width, composed of
a band of ultramarine blue (\1/8\-inch), a band of golden orange (\1/
4\-inch), a band of ultramarine blue (\5/8\-inch), a band of golden
orange (\1/4\-inch), and a band of ultramarine blue (\1/8\-inch), by a
ring engaging the pointer. (E.O. 9158, May 11, 1942, 7 FR 3541, as
amended by E.O. 9242A, September 11, 1942, 7 FR 7874).
Sec. 578.20 Army Commendation Medal.
(a) Criteria. The Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) was established
by War Department (WD) Circular 377, on December 18, 1945 (amended in
DAGO 10, March 31, 1960). It is awarded to any members of the Armed
Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the
Army after December 6, 1941, distinguishes himself or herself by an act
of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service. Award
may be made to a member of the Armed Forces of a friendly foreign
nation who, after June 1, 1962, distinguishes himself or herself by an
act of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service,
which has been of mutual benefit to a friendly nation and the United
States.
(1) Awards of the ARCOM may be made for acts of valor performed
under circumstances described above which are of lesser degree than
required for award of the Bronze Star Medal. These acts may involve
aerial flight.
(2) An award of the ARCOM may be made for acts of non-combat
related heroism, which do not meet the requirements for an award of the
Soldier's Medal.
(3) The ARCOM will not be awarded to general officers.
(4) Awards of the ARCOM may be made on letter application to NPRC
(see Sec. 578.16(a)(3) for address), to any individual commended after
December 6, 1941 and before January 1, 1946 in a letter, certificate,
or order of commendation, as distinguished from letter of appreciation,
signed by an officer in the grade or position of a major general or
higher. Awards of the Army Commendation Ribbon and of the Commendation
Ribbon with Metal Pendant are re-designated by DAGO 10, March 31, 1960,
as awards of the ARCOM, without amendments of certificates or of orders
previously issued.
(5) The Commander, Eighth U.S. Army is authorized to award the Army
Commendation Medal for meritorious service to Korean Augmentation to
U.S. Army (KATUSA) personnel.
(b) Description. On a 1\3/8\-inch bronze hexagon, one point up, an
American bald eagle with wings displayed horizontally grasping three
crossed arrows and bearing on its breast a shield paly of 13 pieces and
a chief. On the reverse between the words ``For Military'' and
``Merit'' a panel, all above a sprig of laurel. A moired silk ribbon
1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in width, composed of stripes
of white (\3/32\-inch), green (\25/64\-inch), white (\1/32\-inch),
green (\1/16\-inch), white (\1/32\-inch), green (\1/16\-inch), white
(\1/32\-inch), green (\1/16\-inch), white (\1/32\-inch), green (\1/16\-
inch), white (\1/32\-inch), green (\25/64\-inch), and white (\3/32\-
inch).
Sec. 578.21 Army Achievement Medal.
(a) Criteria. The Army Achievement Medal (AAM) was established by
the Secretary of the Army, April 10, 1981. It is awarded to any member
of the Armed Forces of the United States, or to any member of the Armed
Forces of a friendly foreign nation, who while serving in any capacity
with the Army distinguished himself or herself by meritorious service
or achievement of a lesser degree than required for award of the Army
Commendation Medal under the following circumstances:
(1) After August 1, 1981, for meritorious service or achievement
while serving in a non-combat area.
(2) On or after September 11, 2001, for non-combat meritorious
achievement or service.
(b) The AAM will not be awarded to general officers.
(c) Description. A Bronze octagonal medal, 1\1/2\ inches in
diameter, with one angle at the top centered. On the obverse is a
design consisting of the elements of the DA plaque and the date
``1775'' at the bottom. On the reverse, in three lines, are the words
``FOR MILITARY ACHIEVEMENT'' above a space for inscription and below
there are two slips of laurel. The moired ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide
and consists of the following stripes: \1/8\ inch Green 67129; \1/16\
inch White 67101; \1/8\ inch Green; \1/16\ inch White; \9/32\ inch
Ultramarine Blue 67118; center \1/16\ inch White; \9/32\ inch
Ultramarine Blue; \1/16\ inch White; \1/8\ inch Green; \1/16\ inch
White; and \1/8\ inch Green.
Sec. 578.22 Prisoner of War Medal.
(a) Criteria. The POW Medal is authorized by Public Law 99-145, 10
U.S.C. 1128, November 8, 1985, as amended by 10 U.S.C. 1128, November
29, 1989. It is authorized for any person who, while serving in any
capacity with the U.S. Armed Forces, was taken prisoner and held
captive after April 5, 1917.
(1) The POW Medal is to be issued only to those U.S. military
personnel and other personnel granted creditable U.S. military service,
who were taken prisoner and held captive--
(i) While engaged in an action against an enemy of the United
States.
(ii) While engaged in military operations involving conflict with
an opposing foreign force.
(iii) While serving with friendly forces engaged in an armed
conflict against an opposing force in which the United States is not a
belligerent party.
(iv) By foreign armed forces that are hostile to the United States,
under circumstances which the Secretary concerned finds to have been
comparable to those under which persons have generally been held
captive by enemy armed forces during periods of armed conflict.
(2) U.S. and foreign civilians who have been credited with U.S.
military service which encompasses the period of captivity are also
eligible for the medal. The Secretary of Defense authorized on January
27, 1990, the POW Medal for the Philippine Commonwealth Army and
Recognized Guerrilla Unit Veterans who were held captive between
December 7, 1941, and September 26, 1945. DD Form 2510-1 (Prisoner of
War Medal Application/Information-Philippine Commonwealth Army and
Recognized Guerrilla Veterans) was developed as the application for
Filipino Veterans who fit this category.
(3) For purposes of this medal, past armed conflicts are defined as
World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam Conflict, Grenada,
Panama, Persian Gulf War, and Somalia. 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) Any person convicted of misconduct or a criminal charge by a
U.S. military tribunal, or who receives a less than honorable discharge
based upon actions while a prisoner of war, or whose conduct was not in
accord with the Code of Conduct, and whose actions are documented by
U.S. military records is ineligible for the medal. The Secretary of the
Army is the authority for deciding eligibility in such cases.
(5) No more than one POW Medal will be awarded. For subsequent
award of the medal, service stars will be awarded and worn on the
suspension and service ribbon of the medal. A period of captivity
terminates on return to U.S.
[[Page 66616]]
military control. Escapees who do not return to U.S. military control
and are recaptured by an enemy do not begin a new period of captivity
for subsequent award of the POW Medal. (Service stars are described in
Sec. 578.61).
(6) The POW Medal may be awarded posthumously.
(7) The primary next of kin of eligible prisoners of war who die in
captivity may be issued the POW Medal regardless of the length of stay
in captivity.
(8) Personnel officially classified as Missing in Action (MIA) are
not eligible for award of the POW Medal. The POW Medal will only be
awarded when the individual's prisoner of war status has been
officially confirmed and recognized as such by the DA. Likewise, the
return of remains, in and of itself, does not constitute evidence of
confirmed prisoner of war status.
(b) Award of the POW Medal to active military personnel, veterans,
retirees and their next of kin.
(1) Active Military Personnel. Award of the POW Medal to military
personnel in an active war will be processed by the Commander, USA HRC
(see Sec. 578.3(c)), after coordination with the Repatriation and
Family Affairs Division.
(2) Veterans, retirees and their next of kin. All requests for the
POW Medal will be initiated by eligible former POWs, or their next of
kin, using a personal letter or DD Form 2510 (Prisoner of War Medal
Application/ Information). Applications should be forwarded to the NPRC
(see Sec. 578.16(a)(3) for address).
(c) 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. 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.
Sec. 578.23 National Defense Service Medal.
(a) Criteria. The National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) was
established by Executive Order 10448, April 22, 1953, as amended by
Executive Order 11265, January 11, 1966 and Executive Order 12776,
October 18, 1991. It is awarded for honorable active service for any
period between June 27, 1950 and July 27, 1954, both dates inclusive;
between January 1, 1961 and August 14, 1974, both dates inclusive;
between August 2, 1990 and November 30, 1995, both dates inclusive; and
from September 11, 2001 to a date to be determined.
(1) For the purpose of this award, the following persons will not
be considered as performing active service:
(i) Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve forces personnel on
short tours of duty to fulfill training obligations under an inactive
duty training program.
(ii) Any service member on temporary duty or temporary active duty
to serve on boards, courts, commissions, and like organizations.
(iii) Any service member on active duty for the sole purpose of
undergoing a physical examination.
(2) In addition to the conditions listed above, Executive Order
12776 extended award of the NDSM to all members of the Army National
Guard and United States Army Reserve who were part of the selected
Reserve in good standing during the period August 2, 1990 to November
30, 1995. During this period, soldiers in the following categories will
not be considered eligible:
(i) Any soldier of the Individual Ready Reserve, Inactive National
Guard or the standby or retired Reserve whose active duty service was
for the sole purpose of undergoing a physical examination.
(ii) Any soldier of the Individual Ready Reserve, Inactive National
Guard or the standby or retired reserve whose active duty service was
for training only, or to serve on boards, courts, commissions and like
organizations.
(3) On March 28, 2003, the President signed an amendment to
Executive Order 10448 that extends the eligibility criteria for award
of the NDSM to members of the selected Reserve of the Armed Forces of
the United States in good standing during the period beginning
September 11, 2001 to a date to be determined to be eligible for award
of the NDSM.
(4) Any member of the Army National Guard or U.S. Army Reserve who,
after December 31, 1960, becomes eligible for the award of the Armed
Forces Expeditionary Medal or the Vietnam Service Medal, is also
eligible for award of the NDSM. The NDSM may be awarded to members of
the Reserve Component who are ordered to Federal active duty regardless
of the duration (except for categories listed above).
(5) To signify receipt of a second or subsequent award of the NDSM,
a service star will be worn on the service ribbon by U.S. Army
personnel so qualified. Second or third award of the NDSM is authorized
for soldiers who served in one or more of the three time periods as
listed in paragraph (a) of this section. It is not authorized for
soldiers who met the criteria in one time period, left active duty and
returned during the same period of eligibility. (Service stars are
described in Sec. 578.61).
(6) Cadets of the U.S. Military Academy are eligible for the NDSM,
during any of the inclusive periods listed above, upon completion of
the swearing-in ceremonies as a cadet.
(7) The NDSM may be awarded posthumously.
(b) Description. On a Bronze medal, 1 \1/4\ inches in diameter, an
eagle displayed with inverted wings standing on a sword and palm
branch, all beneath the inscription ``NATIONAL DEFENSE''. On the
reverse is a shield taken from the Coat of Arms of the United States
with an open wreath below it, the right side of oak leaves and the left
side of laurel leaves. The ribbon is 1 \3/8\ inches wide and consists
of the following stripes: \7/16\ inch Scarlet 67111; \1/32\ inch White
67101; \1/32\ inch Old Glory Blue 67178; \1/32\ inch White; \1/32\ inch
Scarlet; center \1/4\ inch Golden Yellow 67104; \1/32\ inch Scarlet;
\1/32\ inch White; \1/32\ inch Old Glory Blue; \1/32\ inch White; and
\7/16\ inch Scarlet.
Sec. 578.24 Antarctica Service Medal.
(a) Criteria. The Antarctica Service Medal (ASM) was established by
Public Law 86-600 (DA Bulletin. 3, 1960). It is awarded to any person
who, after January 2, 1946 and before a date to be announced, meets any
of the following qualifications:
(1) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States or civilian
citizen, national, or resident alien of the United States who, is a
member of a direct support or exploratory operation in Antarctica.
(2) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States or civilian
citizen, national, or resident alien of the United States who
participates in or has participated in a foreign Antarctic expedition
in Antarctica in coordination with a United States expedition and who
is or was under the sponsorship and approval of competent U.S.
Government authority.
(3) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who
participates in or has participated in flights as a member of the crew
of an aircraft flying to or from the Antarctic continent in support of
operations in Antarctica.
(4) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States or civilian
citizen, national, or resident alien of the United States who serves or
has served on a U.S. ship operating south of latitude 60
[[Page 66617]]
degrees S. in support of U.S. programs in Antarctica.
(5) Any person, including citizens of foreign nations, not
fulfilling any above qualification, but who participates in or has
participated in a United States expedition in Antarctica at the
invitation of a participating United States Agency. In such case, the
award will be made by the Secretary of the Department under whose
cognizance the expedition falls provided the commander of the military
support force as senior U.S. representative in Antarctica considers
that the individual has performed outstanding and exceptional service
and shared the hardship and hazards of the expedition.
(b) Personnel who remain on the Antarctic Continent during the
winter months will be eligible to wear a clasp or a disc as described
below:
(1) A clasp with the words ``Wintered Over'' on the suspension
ribbon of the medal:
(2) A \5/16\ inch diameter disc with an outline of the Antarctic
continent inscribed thereon fastened to the bar ribbon representing the
medal.
(3) The appurtenances in paragraphs (b)(1) and (2) of this section
are awarded in bronze for the first winter, in gold for the second
winter and in silver for personnel who ``winter over'' three or more
times.
(c) Subsequent to June 1, 1973, minimum time limits for the award
are 30 days under competent orders to duty at sea or ashore, south of
latitude 60 degrees S. Each day of duty under competent orders at any
outlying station on the Antarctic continent will count as 2 days when
determining award eligibility. Effective July 1, 1987, flight crews of
aircraft providing logistics support from outside the Antarctic area
may qualify for the award after 15 missions (one flight in and out
during any 24-hour period equals one mission). Days need not be
consecutive.
(d) No person is authorized to receive more than one award of the
ASM. Not more than one clasp or disc will be worn on the ribbon.
Antarctica is defined as the area south of latitude 60 degrees S. The
ASM takes precedence immediately after the Korean Service Medal.
(e) Description. The medal is bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter,
with a view of a polar landscape and the standing figure in Antarctica
clothing facing to the front between the horizontally placed words
``ANTARCTICA'' on the figure's right and ``SERVICE'' on the figure's
left. On the reverse is a polar projection with geodesic lines of the
continent of Antarctica across which are the horizontally placed words
``COURAGE'', ``SACRIFICE'', and ``DEVOTION'', all within a circular
decorative border of penguins and marine life. The Suspension Ribbon
Clasp: On a metal clasp, 1\1/4\ inches in width and \1/4\ inch in
height, inscribed with the words ``WINTERED OVER'' in raised letters
within a \1/32\ inch rim. The metal color of the clasp is Bronze for
the first winter, Gold for the second winter and Silver for the third
winter. The Service Ribbon Attachment: On a metal disc, \5/16\ inch in
diameter, a superimposed delineation of the Antarctica continent. The
metal color of the ribbon attachment is Bronze for the first winter,
Gold for the second winter and Silver for the third winter. The ribbon
is 1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of a \3/16\ inch Black stripe on
each edge and graded from a White stripe in the center to a Pale Blue,
Light Blue, Greenish Blue, and Medium Blue.
Sec. 578.25 Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
(a) Criteria. The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (AFEM) was
established by Executive Order 10977, dated December 4, 1961 (DA
Bulletin. 1, 1962) and Executive Order 11231, July 8, 1965. This medal
is authorized for:
(1) U.S. military operations.
(2) U.S. operations in direct support of the United Nations.
(3) U.S. operations of assistance for friendly foreign nations.
(b) Requirements. The AFEM is awarded for services after July 1,
1958, meeting the following qualifications:
(1) Personnel must be a bona fide member of a unit and engaged in
the operation, or meet one or more of the following criteria:
(i) Have served not less than 30 consecutive days in the area of
operations.
(ii) Be engaged in direct support of the operation for 30
consecutive days or 60 nonconsecutive days, provided this support
involves entering the area of operations. The qualifying criteria for
non-unit direct support personnel in Grenada is 6 consecutive days or
12 non-consecutive days.
(iii) Serve for the full period where an operation is of less than
30 days duration.
(iv) Be engaged in actual combat, or duty which is equally as
hazardous as combat, during the operation with armed opposition,
regardless of time in the area.
(v) Participate as a regularly assigned crewmember of an aircraft
flying into, out of, within, or over the area in support of the
military operation.
(2) If the criteria above have not been fulfilled the individual
must be recommended, or attached to a unit recommended, by the chief of
a service or the commander of a unified or specified command for award
of the medal. Such recommendations may be made to the Joint Chiefs of
Staff (JCS) for duty of such value to the operation as to warrant
particular recognition.
(c) The designated U.S. military operations, areas, and dates are
provided in Table 4 below:
Table 4
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Area Dates Explanation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quemoy and Matsu Islands.... August 23, 1956 to
June 1, 1963.
Lebanon..................... July 1, 1958 to
November 1, 1958.
Taiwan Straits.............. August 23, 1958 to
January 1, 1959.
Berlin...................... August 14, 1961 to
June 1, 1963.
Cuba........................ October 24, 1962 to
June 1, 1963.
Congo....................... November 23 to 27,
1964.
Dominican Republic.......... April 28, 1965 to
September 21, 1966.
Korea....................... October 1, 1966 to
June 30, 1974.
Cambodia--Operation EAGLE April 11 to 13, 1975 Evacuation of
PULL. Cambodia.
Vietnam--Operation FREQUENT April 29 to 30, 1975 Evacuation of
WIND. Vietnam (see Sec.
578.26(e) for
conversion of AFEM
to VSM.)
Mayaguez Operation.......... May 15, 1975........
Grenada--Operation URGENT October 23, 1983 to The qualifying
FURY. November 21, 1983. criteria for non-
unit direct support
personnel in
Grenada is 6
consecutive days or
12 nonconsecutive
days.
[[Page 66618]]
Libya-Operation ELDORADO April 12, 1986 to
CANYON. April 17, 1986.
Panama-Operation JUST CAUSE. December 20, 1989 to
January 31, 1990.
Haiti-Operation UPHOLD September 16, 1994
DEMOCRACY. to March 31, 1995.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(d) Designated U.S. operations in direct support of the United
Nations are provided in Table 5 below:
Table 5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Area Dates Explanation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Congo....................... July 14, 1960 to
September 1, 1962.
Somalia-Operations RESTORE December 5, 1992 to
HOPE and UNITED SHIELD. March 31, 1995.
Former Republic of June 1, 1992 to June Only for
Yugoslavia-Operations JOINT 20, 1998. participants
ENDEAVOR and JOINT GUARD. deployed in Bosnia-
Herzegovina and
Croatia.
Former Republic of June 21, 1998 to a
Yugoslavia-Operation JOINT date to be
FORGE. determined.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) Designated U.S. operations of assistance for a friendly foreign
nation are provided in Table 6 below:
Table 6
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Area Dates Explanation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vietnam..................... July 1, 1958 to July
3, 1965.
Laos........................ April 19, 1961 to
October 7, 1962.
Cambodia.................... March 29, 1973 to
August 15, 1973.
Thailand.................... March 29, 1973 to Only those in direct
August 15, 1973. support of Cambodia
operations.
El Salvador................. January 1, 1981 to
February 1, 1992.
Lebanon..................... June 1, 1983 to
December 1, 1987.
Persian Gulf--Operation July 24, 1987 (the The area of
EARNEST WILL. date of the operations is the
Bridgeton incident) area from 20
to August 1, 1990. degrees north
latitude northward
to 30 degrees, 30
minutes, north
latitude and from
46 degrees, 36
minutes, east
longitude eastward
to 63 degrees east
longitude. These
geographical limits
include the Persian
Gulf, Bahrain,
Kuwait, the Gulf of
Oman and most of
Saudi Arabia.
Southwest Asia:
--Operation SOUTHERN December 1, 1995 to
WATCH. a date to be
determined.
--Maritime Intercept December 1, 1995 to
Operation. a date to be
determined.
--Vigilant Sentinel..... December 1, 1995 to
February 15, 1997.
--Operation NORTHERN January 1, 1997 to a
WATCH. date to be
determined.