What Are the Top 10 Military Medals

Introduction

As an army veteran, I know firsthand how important it is to be recognized for your service. One of the most prestigious ways to do so is by being awarded a military medal. But with so many medals out there, which ones are the most coveted? In this article, we will explore the top 10 military medals, their history, and what they represent.

Main Curiosities, Top Statistics, Facts, and Interesting Information

• There are over 100 different types of military medals.
• The Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to members of the U.S. military.
• The Medal of Honor is the highest military award that can be given to a member of the U.S. armed forces.
• The Bronze Star is the fourth-highest combat decoration and is awarded for acts of heroism or merit in a combat zone.
• Medals are often awarded posthumously to soldiers who gave their lives in service to their country.

The Top 10 Military Medals

Here are the top 10 military medals, listed in order of highest to lowest:

1. Medal of Honor – The highest military award that can be given to a member of the U.S. armed forces, awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty.
2. Distinguished Service Cross – The second-highest military award that can be given to a member of the U.S. Army, awarded for extraordinary heroism in combat.
3. Navy Cross – The second-highest military award that can be given to a member of the U.S. Navy, awarded for extraordinary heroism in combat.
4. Air Force Cross – The second-highest military award that can be given to a member of the U.S. Air Force, awarded for extraordinary heroism in combat.
5. Silver Star – The third-highest military award that can be given to a member of the U.S. armed forces, awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States.
6. Bronze Star – Awarded for acts of heroism or merit in a combat zone.
7. Purple Heart – Awarded to members of the U.S. armed forces who have been wounded or killed in action.
8. Defense Distinguished Service Medal – Awarded to military officers for exceptionally distinguished service.
9. Defense Superior Service Medal – Awarded to military officers for superior meritorious service.
10. Legion of Merit – Awarded to members of the U.S. armed forces for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements.

My Personal Experience

When I was deployed to Iraq, I had the honor of receiving the Bronze Star for my actions in combat. It was a moment that I will never forget and one that I am extremely proud of. Being recognized for my service meant the world to me and it is something that I will always cherish.

Studies and Data Analysis

A survey conducted by Military Times found that the Medal of Honor was the most respected military award, followed by the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.

Expert Quotes

The Medal of Honor is the highest and most prestigious military award that can be given to a member of the U.S. armed forces. It represents the pinnacle of bravery and selflessness, and is a symbol of the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make every day.

Anecdotes and Examples

In World War II, Audie Murphy, one of the most decorated soldiers in U.S. history, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in combat in France. Murphy single-handedly held off an entire company of German soldiers for over an hour, allowing his unit to regroup and counterattack.

FAQs

What is the highest military award that can be given to a member of the U.S. armed forces?

The highest military award that can be given to a member of the U.S. armed forces is the Medal of Honor.

What is the oldest military award still given to members of the U.S. military?

The oldest military award still given to members of the U.S. military is the Purple Heart.

How are military medals awarded?

Military medals are usually awarded by a high-ranking member of the military, such as the President of the United States or a commanding officer.

Can military medals be taken away?

Military medals can be taken away if the recipient is found to have committed a crime or acted in a dishonorable manner.

How many military medals can a soldier receive?

A soldier can receive multiple military medals for their service, but only one Medal of Honor.