The Air Force began its own special division of medals in 1947. Although members of the Air Force often shared the same awards as other military divisions, a more concentrated effort to create awards unique to the Air Force began following the Cuban Missile Crisis. Today, the Air Force and the Coast Guard issue more medals than all five divisions of the military, with the Air Force issuing more ribbons and the Coast Guard issuing more medals.

An Airforce medal and American medals represent a legacy in service to this country. The Air Force may be the youngest branch of the military, but the importance it plays in the field of combat makes it one of the most well decorated divisions of the military. Since planes were first implemented in World War I, the Air Force has played an integral role in every American conflict.

Comparable to the Army’s Distinguished Service Cross and the Navy and Marine Corps Navy Cross, the Air Force Cross is the second highest honor that can be bestowed on an Air Force cadet. It is awarded to Air Force cadets who distinguish themselves through extraordinary heroism under the pressure of combat.

Similar to the Army Distinguished Service Medal, the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal was created to be unique to the Air Force. The medal is awarded to any member of the Air Force who distinguishes himself or herself by exceptionally meritorious service to his or her country in the duty of great responsibility. Although the medal tends to be given more liberally to retiring officers, it is traditionally reserved for officers who hold the rank of Major General or higher.

Given for duty performed not in combat, the Airman’s Medal is issued to any member of the Air Force who shows heroism and voluntarily risks his or her life. First created in 1960, the award is the equivalent of the Navy Marine Corps Medal and Coast Guard Medal and the Army’s Soldier Medal.

The Air and Space Campaign Medal, the Air Force Combat Action Medal, and the Combat Readiness Medals are all Air Force service medals.

The Air Force Good Conduct Medal and the Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal are both medals given by the Air Force for good conduct.

Treasured artifacts of history, Airforce medal and American medals are often passed down through countless generations of the family. These medals are symbols of the valor of airmen and women who fought for our freedom on the wings of the sky.