Updated: 12 June, 2006

United States

FBI Medals
- FBI's No. 2 official to retire Bruce J. Gebhardt, the FBI's number two official, will retire after a 30-year career. Gebhardt became a special agent in 1974 and has been deputy director for the past two years. During his career Gebhardt served in Field Offices in Denver, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Newark, N.J. and Phoenix ad well as at headquarters in Washington. He received the FBI Medal of Valor for action during an airplane hijacking in 1976 in Denver, Colorado. miami.com 19 Aug 04

NASA Medals – Criteria for Award

NASA Agency Honor Awards

Exceptional Technology Achievement Medal (Government employees and non-Government personnel) - An award given for technology contributions achieved in one of the following:

Early technology development significantly contributing to the NASA mission.

Exemplary collaborative effort in achieving significant technology transfer.
Exceptional utilization of a NASA-developed technology resulting in a significant commercial application.

Exceptional Administrative Achievement Medal (Government employees only) - An award given to any person in the Federal service for a significant, specific accomplishment or contribution characterized by unusual initiative or creativity that clearly demonstrates a substantial improvement in administrative support contributing to the mission of NASA, such as:

Exceptional initiative in carrying out office/program support activities that resulted in improved processes and operations.
Development and improvement of administrative support methods and processes that resulted in substantial benefit to the office or program.

Notable competence and resourcefulness in accomplishing and improving office/program processes and operations

Challenger Crew Honored With Congressional Space Medal Of Honor The families of the Space Shuttle Challenger's crew accepted the Congressional Space Medal of Honor. The honors, presented in the name of Congress and on behalf of President George W. Bush, were made during a private ceremony with the families of the seven astronauts in Washington. The Space Shuttle Challenger's crew of seven astronauts died in the explosion of their spacecraft during the launch of STS-51-L on January 28, 1986. The explosion occurred 73 seconds into the flight, as a result of a leak in one of two Solid Rocket Boosters that ignited the main liquid fuel tank. The STS-51-L crew included Commander Francis R. (Dick) Scobee, Pilot Michael J. Smith, Mission Specialists Judith A. Resnik, Ronald E. McNair and Ellison S. Onizuka, Payload Specialist Gregory B. Jarvis and Sharon Christa McAuliffe, the first teacher to fly in space. The Congressional Space Medal of Honor was authorized by Congress in 1969 to recognize "any astronaut who in the performance of his duties has distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious efforts and contributions to the welfare of the Nation and mankind." Astronauts who have been honored with the Congressional Space Medal include John Young, Jim Lovell, Virgil "Gus" Grissom, Shannon Lucid, William Shepherd and Senator John Glenn. In all, a total of 27 astronauts have now been honored. Apollo 11 Commander Neil Armstrong received the very first Congressional Space Medal of Honor in 1978. nasa.gov 23 Jul 04

NASA Medals awarded to Mars Global Surveyor Development Team Members (June, 1998)

Lucid awarded Space Medal of Honor - Dec. 2, 1996 (CNN)
Staples to be honored by NASA Williams Staples, president of the University of Houston – Clear Lake will be awarded the NASA Public Service Medal. Each year, the space agency selects individuals and groups, both government and non-government, who have made substantial contributions to NASA’s mission. Galveston County Daily News, TX 2 Aug 03

NASA Exceptional Service Medal - James S. Martin Jr., NASA's former manager of the Viking missions to Mars, died April 14, 2002. Martin led a 750-member team of scientists, technicians and engineers during the Viking I and II missions in 1975. Awarded the NASA Exceptional Service Medal in 1967. (Apr 02)

Stennis workers awarded NASA medals Employees at NASA's Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Miss., recently earned recognition from NASA. Mary Kennedy received NASA's Exceptional Administrative Achievement Medal for exceptional contributions to the mission of NASA. She is an accounting technician in the office of the chief financial officer, business management directorate. She was given the award for her successful efforts to implement NASA's Web-based Time and Attendance Distribution System at Stennis. Jenette Gordon received NASA's prestigious Exceptional Achievement Medal. She is an environmental engineer in the center operations directorate. She was given the award for her creative approaches and expert knowledge of hazardous waste and permitting. When Stennis identified nine sites within the Stennis Fee Area that needed environmental cleanup, Gordon helped the directorate wade through procedures and information to achieve the complex project on time. Times Picayune, LA 21 Aug 03

Houck celebrates NASA medal Jim Houck, the Cornell University Kenneth A. Wallace Professor of Astronomy at Cornell University and developer and principal investigator for the Spitzer Space Telescope's infrared spectrograph, celebrated a top NASA award with colleagues in the Space Sciences Building on Wednesday, June 29, on the Cornell campus. Houck received NASA's Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal. spaceref.com 2 Jul 05

Pitt Engineering Professor Awarded NASA Public Service Medal Peyman Givi, William Kepler Whiteford Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the University of Pittsburgh School of Engineering, has been awarded the NASA Public Service Medal, which recognizes exceptional contributions to NASA's mission. Givi received the award “for the development of advanced modeling techniques for designing high-speed and hypersonic propulsion systems for aerospace vehicles.” umc.pitt.edu 30 Aug 05

NASA Deputy Administrator Frederick Gregory Resigns NASA's Frederick D. Gregory, who spent 31 years at the agency as a research test pilot, astronaut and senior leader, announced his resignation as deputy administrator. His military awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, 16 Air Medals, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal; NASA, three Space Flight Medals, two Outstanding Leadership Medals and Distinguished Service Medal. His other awards include the National Intelligence Medal. prnewswire.com 9 Sep 05

NASA Honoring Michoud Employees for Heroic Hurricane Work NASA is honoring 38 men and women who risked their lives during Hurricane Katrina to protect the agency's Michoud Assembly Facility, where space shuttle external fuel tanks are manufactured east of New Orleans. While thousands evacuated the area before Katrina made landfall, this "ride-out" crew stayed behind. To recognize that dedication, NASA Administrator Michael Griffin will present the workers with the Exceptional Bravery Medal. The medal is awarded for demonstrating exemplary handling of an emergency that prevents loss of life and government property, while disregarding personal safety. The team ensured Michoud sustained only minor damage from high winds and massive flooding that devastated the surrounding community. As a result of their heroic efforts, delay in external tank processing was kept to a minimum. The crew's work was essential not only to NASA's Space Shuttle Program, but also to the future of human space flight. Michoud's unique manufacturing facilities figure prominently in America's Vision for Space Exploration, since derivatives of the external tank are part of the design for the next generation spacecraft. nasa.gov 29 Dec 05

NASA Honors Distinguished Astronomer With Medal NASA Administrator Michael Griffin awarded the agency's Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal posthumously to acclaimed American astronomer and astrophysicist John Bahcall. His lifetime of achievement included work on development of the Hubble Space Telescope. Griffin presented the medal to Bahcall's widow, Neta Bahcall. In addition to work on the Hubble, Bahcall was honored for extraordinary service to NASA's space astronomy program and leadership of the National Research Council's Decadal Survey. The Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal recognizes significant scientific contributions toward achieving NASA's missions of exploration and discovery. prnewsire.com 10 Jan 06

Bulen recieves NASA achievement medal Dianne G. Bulen, a NASA employee at Stennis Space Center (SSC) near Bay St. Louis, recently received NASA's prestigious Exceptional Achievement Medal. An administrative officer in the Propulsion Test Directorate (PTD) at SSC. She was given the award for her ability to assess and lighten the administrative burden on PTD managers. Her knowledge of the directorate, disciplined approach and problem-solving abilities have gained Bulen the reputation of a "go-to contact" for PTD personnel actions such as hiring, promotion and training. The Daily News Online 8 Oct 03

NASA Website

NOAA Medals

NOAA Medals (Criteria for Award)

NOAA staff wins US medal The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded its Bronze Medal to the Billings staff of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Weather Service. The Billings unit was honored for outstanding work in providing life-saving warnings and enhanced public service during the prolonged severe weather episode of the summer of 2001. (Nov 02)

Commerce Secretary Awards Medal to NOAA Weather Forecast Team for Work During Last Winter's Ohio Valley Snow and Floods A silver medal -- one of the highest honors granted by the U.S. Department of Commerce -- was awarded to a team from several NOAA National Weather Service offices for their coordinated life- saving services during the Ohio Valley snow and flood events of December 2004 and January 2005. The Silver Medal honors "exceptional performance characterized by noteworthy or superlative contributions that have a direct and lasting impact within the Department. biz.yahoo.com 13 Dec 05

Medal for UNH scientist The U.S. Department of Commerce has honored a research meteorologist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-University of New Hampshire Joint Hydrographic Center for giving the public access to real-time coastal data and forecasts over the Internet. Dr. John G.W. Kelley, of Hampstead, received a NOAA Bronze Medal. Kelley conceived of and led the development of nowCOAST, a Web mapping portal using the latest in Geographic Information Systems Internet technology. seacoastonline.com 18 Jan 05

NOAA Website

National Guard Medals

National Guard Ribbons (The most comprehensive list - old & new) (Deepwell)
National Guard Ribbons (Covers most states) (armyawards.com)

Ruppersberger Receives Medal For 'Operation Hero Miles' A Maryland congressman who created a special program to bring thousands of troops serving in Iraq home for rest and relaxation received a special award. Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger, D-District 2, who created Operation Hero Miles, was awarded the National Guard Association Charles Dick Medal of Merit Award. thewbalchannel.com 26 Oct 04

Alabama

Alabama State Awards (4th Alabama)

Ribbons of the State of Alabama (Megan C. Robertson)

Flowers gets Army Achievement Medal Alabama Army National Guard Captain Gregory L. Flowers, above right, was decorated with the Army Achievement Medal for exceptionally meritorious service from August 1, 1999 through December 31, 2002 while serving as the Aide-de-Camp for the Commanding General, 62nd Troop. (Feb 03)
Col. Sailors awarded Army Meritorious Service Medal Alabama Army National Guard Lieutenant Colonel Bobby L. Sailors was decorated with the Army Meritorious Service Medal for "distinguished meritorious service, excellent performance, devotion to duty, and command leadership while serving as Battalion Commander of the 1203rd Engineer Battalion (Topographical) during the period March 2001 through January 2003". (Feb 03)
You Can Design Spirit of Alabama Medal - Since the spirit of Alabama can only shine through Alabamians, Governor Riley is asking for your help designing the Spirit of Alabama Medal. In his Inauguration speech, the Governor announced the medal will be presented to extraordinary Alabamians every year. WSFA, AL - (Feb 03)
- Governor seeks designs for Spirit of Alabama Medal - Montgomery Independent
- Governor seeks designs for Spirit of Alabama Medal - Tuscaloosa News
- Governor Appeals To The Public For Help On New Award - WSFA
Governor Awards Medal to Two Soldiers for Hurricane Work Two members of the Alabama National Guard were awarded the Special Service Medal of Alabama for their leadership in the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan. Governor Bob Riley pinned medals on Colonel Jeffrey Kinard of the 226th Area Support Group in Mobile and Staff Sergeant James Dunkle of the 167th Infantry Battalion, based in Valley. Riley said the soldiers were among more than 1700 Army and Air Guard personnel who helped hundreds of residents after Ivan landed on Alabama's Gulf coast in mid-September. The Special Service Medal of Alabama is awarded to individuals whose actions deserve praise. waff.com 10 Nov 04

Arizona

Arizona Department of Corrections Medals

California

California State Military Department
The California State Military MuseumHearldry and Insignia of the California State Military Forces

The California Service Medal

By Captain George J. Albert

California Center for Military History

Schwarzenegger Awards Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor to Four Californians Governor Schwarzenegger awarded the Governor's Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor to Sergeant Hector Feliciano of the Los Angeles Police Department, Officer Barry Parker, San Francisco Police Department, Deputy David Tilstra of the Orange County Sheriff's Department and Emergency Medical Technician Matt Wilson of the City of Imperial Beach Public Safety Department. The Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act, effective January 1, 2003, authorizes the Governor to award a Medal of Valor to one or more public safety officers who are cited by the Attorney General for extraordinary valor above and beyond the call of duty. The Medal of Valor is the highest state award to a public safety officer. bakersfieldonline.us 8 Feb 06

Colorado

Tancredo seeks Cold War medal On Oct. 30, Colorado Republican Congressman Tom Tancredo introduced a bill calling for the creation of a "Cold War Victory Medal," which would be presented to every member of the U.S. armed forces who served between Sept. 2, 1945 (the end of World War II), and Dec. 26, 1991 (the end of the line for the Soviet Union). According to figures from the Department of Defense, the number of U.S. service personnel in those nearly five decades was close to 100 million. Rocky Mountain News 10 Nov 03

Connecticut

Governor honors WWI Veteran, 107 (Nathan Weisinger receives the Connecticut State's World War I Medal and a special veterans flag that the state rarely grants) (Dec 01)

Residents pitching in on medals for veterans One man's vision can often be the spark to ignite action in a community. That's what has happened with Peter "Flagman" Orenski's idea to recognize New Milford Connecticut veterans with antique gold commemorative medals in honor of their service to the country. Since Dr. Orenski announced the project, the New Milford school system, the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, the Daughters of the American Revolution and several other organizations in New Milford have expressed interest in taking an active role in further identifying and acknowledging all New Milford veterans — living and dead. It's an ambitious and challenging goal to create such a list, but in the end that information will be a valuable resource for the community. The goal is to present a medal to every veteran in town, as well as to New Milford family members of deceased veterans – hopefully by Veterans Day of 2007, which is New Milford's tricentennial anniversary. Mr. Orenski, an immigrant who grew up under communist rule and is now a citizen of the United States, funded the manufacture of an initial 300 medals to be distributed on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Dec. 7 on the Village Green as a way to say "thank you" to the men and women who serve this country. Thirty veterans were presented medals that day, and more have been given out since then. Veteran Dan Sullivan designed the commemorative medal, which features the New Milford bandstand, the town's name and six stars representing each branch of the military service on one side and the inscription "Gratias Agimus Tibi" (a Latin phrase meaning "Thank you for thy service) on the flip side. spectrum.newmilford.com 30 Dec 05

Medals to be awarded on Memorial Day New Milford Connecticut veterans and active servicemen and women who have served from 1918 to the present will be honored during the town’s Memorial Day parade. During the opening ceremony Dan Sullivan will present special New Milford medals to veterans and servicepeople who are currently serving, or their families. Following is a list of the people who will be recognized: World War I - James Henry Hastings (Navy), Michael Martin Hastings (Army) and Gerald G. Marsh (Air Service). World War II - Charles H. Aldrich Jr. (Navy), Frederick Aldrich (Army Air Corps), Charles B. Barlow (Army Military Intelligence) Nathan E. Ehrhart (Navy), John Kayser Sr. (Navy), Col. Martin Lifschultz (Army), Donald G. Marsh (Army), Hanford B. Morsey (Army) and Richard Onorato (Navy). Post World War II - John C. Gaiser (Navy), Michael J. Hastings (Navy), John R. Kayser Jr. (Army), Edward A. Mack (Army) and Lt. Gibert N. Nelson (Navy). Post 2000 or currently serving - Lance Cpl. Jeff Bricker (Marine Corps) Capt. Tara Buonaiuto-Carr (Army), Petty Officer 2nd class Nicholas M. Colavito (Navy), Sgt. James Giuffre (Army), Spc. Kathleen Giuffre (Army), Spc. Peter Giuffre (Army), Sgt. Steven Giuffre (Army), Bradford C. Mack (Army), Jeremy S. Mack (Army), Cpl. Brian Mackail (Marine Corps), Cpl. Gary A. Okarmus (Marine Corps), Capt. Eric D. Purcell (Marine Corps), Pfc. Max Ray (Marine Corps), Pfc. Ricky Ray (Marine Corps), Pfc. Andrew R. Cotrel (Army), Spc. Douglas R. Cotrel (Army), Tech. Sgt. Douglas G. Hunter (Air Force) and Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Osuch (Air Force). spectrum.newmilford.com 26 May 06

Rell awards first Connecticut medals to war veterans Twenty military veterans who fought in wars dating back to World War II were honored Thursday with the first Connecticut Veterans Wartime Service Medals. The first recipients of the Connecticut Veterans Wartime Service Medals were: -- World War II: Charles P. Gallagher, East Haven; Henry Komornik, Shelton; Irwin Lustig, West Hartford; Samuel Paulone, Waterbury; Burke Ross, Shelton; Jack Schwing, Shelton; Joseph F. Wargo, Trumbull. -- Korean War: John Giusti, Watertown; Evans E. Kerrigan, Darien; Harry Martucci, Shelton; John Niewinski, New Britain; John Chiarella Sr., Waterbury. -- Vietnam War: Edward Norman, Southington; Jack Dougherty, Branford; William P. Kenney, Canterbury; Al Meadows, Shelton. -- Persian Gulf wars: John Carragher, Southington; Kim Cyr, Bristol; Scott Norton, Colebrook; Buyile Rani, Fairfield. Other eligible veterans may request the service medals by submitting an application form to the state Department of Veterans Affairs. A DD Form 214 or other documentation will be needed to prove eligibility. Application forms and additional information are available from the department's Web site at http://www.ct.gov/ctva, or by calling, after May 30, (866) 928-8387, Extension 5915. boston.com 25 May 06

City soldier among first for new medal Thousands of city veterans are eligible for a new Connecticut Wartime Veterans Service medal. One of the first to receive the medals was Lt. Col. Kim Cyr of the Connecticut National Guard, a Bristol resident who served in the Army during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. The state purchased 320,000 of the bronze medals -- spending $800,000 for them - in order to honor all of the wartime veterans who live in Connecticut, according to state Rep. Roger Michele, D-77th District, who co-chairs the Veterans Affairs Committee. Michele said the state struck the medals after World War I as a show of respect for its returning veterans, but hasn’t done another in the years since. A measure to give medals to the state’s remaining World War II veterans came forward, but when it reached Michele’s committee, he said, it was expanded to cover all Connecticut veterans who served during wartime. Veterans who served for at least 90 days on active duty in a time of war and were honorably discharged are eligible. for the new medal. bristolpress.com 30 May 06

Florida

Joe selected to head Medal of Merit panel Retired Col. Ronald Joe, Florida A&M University's associate vice president of development, has been appointed by Gov. Jeb Bush to head the (Florida) Governor's Medal of Merit Screening Committee. Bush signed a bill creating the Governor's Medal of Merit last month. The award will be given to Florida residents who have performed exceptional meritorious service and bravery above and beyond the level of duty required by their respective military or civilian position. tallahassee.com 6 Jun 04

Hawaii

New Hawai'i medal proposed Bills to create a Hawai'i Medal of Honor, exempt members of the National Guard and Reserve from county vehicle taxes and fees, and compensate state employees on active duty are among those from a "military appreciation package" that have made it through early review by the state Legislature. Rep. K. Mark Takai, vice speaker of the House, said the focus of this year's military-related package is on the families of deployed Hawai'i service members. Takai, himself a Hawai'i Army National Guard member, said an important bill is one that would create a Hawai'i Medal of Honor, which is expected to be modeled after the Medal of Honor but would be reserved for service members killed in action. Takai's office said all states have a Medal of Valor, and such a medal was dedicated by former Gov. Ben Cayetano at Arlington National Cemetery on behalf of all Hawai'i residents who have been killed in action. A Hawai'i Medal of Honor would be "the only one in the nation that will be awarded through a concurrent resolution in the Legislature," Takai said. The medal would be given to family members. Members of the Hawai'i National Guard or Reserves and active-duty service members stationed in Hawai'i would be eligible for the recognition. honoluluadvertiser.com 21 Feb 05
Lingle signs bill for Hawai'i medal Military personnel with Hawai'i connections who are killed in Iraq or Afghanistan will receive a new Hawai'i Medal of Honor under a bill signed by Gov. Linda Lingle. Eligible for the award would be active duty, national guard and reservists who were legal residents or stationed in Hawai'i at the time they were killed. Also eligible are those who attended school in the Islands at some period in their life.The medal would be awarded through a concurrent resolution approved by both houses of the Legislature. the.honoluluadvertiser.com 22 Apr 05

Lingle signs bill for Hawai'i medal Military personnel with Hawai'i connections who are killed in Iraq or Afghanistan will receive a new Hawai'i Medal of Honor under a bill signed by Gov. Linda Lingle. Eligible for the award would be active duty, national guard and reservists who were legal residents or stationed in Hawai'i at the time they were killed. Also eligible are those who attended school in the Islands at some period in their life.The medal would be awarded through a concurrent resolution approved by both houses of the Legislature. the.honoluluadvertiser.com 22 Apr 05

Hawaii Medals of Honor Bestowed The Hawaii Medal of Honor was created by lawmakers this year, to honor the state's fallen servicemen and women. khnl.com 19 Apr 06
- New state medal to be awarded A new state award, the Hawaii Medal of Honor, will be given to 120 service members killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Forty-eight families are expected to attend the award ceremony. The award will be given to service members who were residents of Hawaii, stationed in the islands, attended colleges here, or were members of the Hawaii National Guard when they died. The medal is believed to be the first in the country issued by a state honoring service members killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. The medal features the state coat of arms and the Maltese Cross, which depicts four axes of the globe to represent Hawaii as the crossroads of the Pacific. kpua.net 17 Apr 06
- Fallen War Heroes to Be Honored by Legislature Complete details, along with list of recipients. hawaiireporter.com 11 Apr 06

Idaho

Oakley men honored for life-saving heroics For what their fire chief called a historic act of bravery, two Oakley men will receive the Idaho Medal of Honor for saving a man from a burning house 10 years ago. U.S. Army Captain Troy Greenwell, now living in Laurel, Md., and Joe Stringham, still in Oakley, are being honored for saving the life of Carl Covington on Nov. 6, 1995, when his home in Oakley was destroyed by fire. magicvalley.com 11 May 06

Indiana

Recently honored WWI veteran dies in Indiana (Gustave ``Gus'' Streeter - He was 105 - Purple Heart - Chevalier of the National Order of the Legion of Honor, France's highest military award, in 1999, and sixty years earlier, the French government had awarded him the Medaille de Verdun for courage and valor in the First World War) (Jan 02)
400-plus vets will get first county medals More than 400 Indiana LaPorte County veterans will receive local recognition for their military service as the county’s first batch of veterans medals are awarded next month. LaPorte County Veterans Service Officer John Wantuch said 469 veterans will receive the LaPorte County Patriotic Service Medal during a ceremony in early February. Both active-duty service and residency are requirements to receive the distinction. LaPorte County has about 13,000 veterans. heraldargus.com 7 Jan 06
Honored for patriotic service: County hands out medals to veterans LaPorte County Indiana honored military veterans of all service types and from all branches as officials handed out LaPorte County's first-ever Patriotic Service Medals. The program was designed in November 2005 to honor living veterans in possession of their discharge forms. LaPorte County Veterans Affairs Officer John Wantuch said if a reservist has only gone through training and was never called up for active duty, he/she is not eligible. thenewsdispatch.com 12 Feb 06

Iowa

Iowa Governor Honors Heroes The governor handed out Medals of Valor to emergency workers and citizens from across the state. Among them, a Glenwood police officer Gary Chambers, who was involved in a shooting. More (Dec 02)
State Legislator writes book on medal-winning soldiers An Iowa state legislator who's also a part-time soldier is writing a book about medal-winning soldiers who've served in Iraq or Afghanistan. Chuck Larson, a state Senator, is also a lawyer in the Army Reserve who was on active duty in Iraq for about a year. In August of this year, several months after he returned from Iraq, Larson founded a group called "Families United for Our Troops and Their Mission." The group began working with so-called "gold star families" who've had loved ones die in the war on terror. Now, Larson is leading a project to write a book. "As I was working with these families and returning veterans, I discovered an incredible number of stories of heroic action under fire and stories that America needed to hear," Larson says. "I made the decision to begin writing a book to capture those stories." Servicemen and women from every branch of the military and from all over the country will be featured. Some of them are Iowa soldiers. "There are some great Iowans we can be very proud of (who) will be profiled in the book," Larson says. He's lined up a publisher, but can't say, yet, when the book will be released. radioiowa.com 27 Dec 05

Illinois

Illinois NG Medals

Kentucky

The Kentucky Medal for Valor

The Kentucky Medal for Valor is the highest state decoration, which can be awarded to members of the Kentucky National Guard. To date, 44 Kentucky Guardsmen have the distinction of having been awarded the Kentucky Medal for Valor. Website contains details on this medal along with a list of recipients and details surround the award of the medal.

Kentucky National Guard Awards and Decorations
Pictured is the Distinguished Service Medal

Kentucky National Guard Medals

Soldier with local ties honored with three medals after death A fallen Kentucky National Guardsman, Sgt. Darrin K. Potter, was posthumously honored with the Spirit of Louisville Award. The award is the city’s highest honor. It’s usually given to emergency workers for bravery and/or community service. Potter also received a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. The Madison Courier 7 Nov 03
Ky. unit wins honor for service in Iraq The 478th Engineer Battalion will receive the Presidential Unit Citation for service in Iraq, the highest award an Army unit can receive. The battalion of about 450 soldiers was mobilized in March 2003 and served with the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force. cincypost.com 21 May 04

Relatives remember guardsman slain in Iraq As rain fell, relatives of Staff Sgt. Brock A. Beery huddled around his casket yesterday, hugging and crying. The moment punctuated the funeral service for Beery, 30, a Kentucky National Guard soldier who was killed March 23 in Iraq. His vehicle hit a roadside bomb near Habbaniyah, west of Fallujah. Beery will be posthumously presented the Purple Heart, the Kentucky Distinguished Service Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge. Nine members of Kentucky National Guard units have been killed in Iraq since the 2003 invasion. courier-journal.com 1 Apr 06

Louisiana

Louisianans who were winners of the Distinguished Service Cross in WWI

Thirteen Louisiana heroes received the distinguished service cross, and the plain narrative of the citations is a stirring, thrilling, inspiring story worthy of being preserved as history and heritage. P. Darlene McClendon Dec 03

Veterans from Bogalusa and Washington Parish, Louisiana A wealth of information P. Darlene McClendon Dec 03

Michigan

Military museum adds exhibit to honor recent war veterans A new grouping of showcases honoring 16 Michigan recipients of the nation's second-highest award for combat heroism: the Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross or Air Force Cross. Thirty of the museum's 110 showcases are new. The museum's director changed and installed 56 exhibits before the museum's March 7 reopening, which followed the annual two-month winter closure. The museum continues to display 22 of the 109 Medals of Honor awarded to Michigan men. Visit Michigan's Own Military and Space Museum:Online mlive.com 27 May 04
County may honor vets with service medals Some military veterans may eventually get a piece of recognition that hasn’t been awarded in LaPorte County Indiana for nearly 90 years. The LaPorte County Veterans Service Office is looking into providing service medals for the county’s vets. To qualify for a proposed new county medal, service men and women would have to prove county residency and active-duty status, whether through discharge papers or military ID, said LaPorte County Veterans Service Officer John Wantuch. Reserve and National Guard members would have to have been called up for active duty. There would be no cutoff date for when the person served. No other county currently provides a similar medal, there is one other Indiana municipality that already has a program under way — Michigan City. He said Michigan City has 150 medals and he hopes to award them on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, but is still determining who will receive them. Michigan City’s medals will be reserved for those who received hazardous-duty or imminent-danger pay since Sept. 11, 2001. The preliminary design for the county’s medal would be a Maltese cross. The county seal would appear on the front along with the words, “People of LaPorte County in grateful recognition of patriotic service.” An eagle would be on the back with “United State Armed Services”. Michigan City’s design features a Leopold cross with a circle and lighthouse in the middle. “Michigan City, Indiana” is written around it. The medal’s ribbon would incorporate the school colors for the city’s traditional high schools. heraldargus.com 21 Sep 05

Maryland

Maryland Air National Guard Awards and Decorations

Mississippi

Mississippi NG State Awards and Decorations

New medal honors fallen Guardsmen At least three families will receive the new medal Mississippi has created to honor National Guard members killed while serving their country, Guard officials said. Gov. Haley Barbour signed a bill this week creating the Mississippi Medal of Valor, now the second-highest of 10 awards for state National Guard service. clarionledger.com 15 May 04

New law creates Mississippi Medal of Valor for military service A bill signed by Gov. Haley Barbour creates a Mississippi Medal of Valor, which becomes the second-highest of 10 awards for state National Guard service. The bill creating the new award becomes law July 1. The Medal of Valor will automatically be given to families of National Guardsmen who die while on duty. The governor may also be give the medal retroactively to active-duty military recipients of the Medal of Honor or the Purple Heart. The new law describes a gold medal with the state seal superimposed on a cross combined with crossed swords. Three Mississippi National Guardsmen have lost their lives in Iraq. Sgt. Joshua Ladd, 20, of Philadelphia, was killed May 1 outside Mosul when a rocket propelled grenade hit his vehicle. Spc. Raphael Davis, 24, of Tutwiler, died Dec. 2 when an improvised explosive device ripped through the Humvee he was driving in a convoy in Tampa, Iraq. Spec. James Anderson Chance III, 25, of Kokomo died Nov. 6 in Iraq when his truck hit a land mine near the Syrian border. sunherald.com 14 May 04
United States - Soldier's family awarded three medals The family of Sgt. 1st Class Saburant "Sabe" Parker will have three medals as a legacy of his heroism. Maj. Gen. Harold A. Cross, the Mississippi National Guard's adjutant general, gave Parker's family the Mississippi Medal of Valor, the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. sunherald.com 30 May 05
Oneto-Sikorski laid to rest as adjutant general salutes bravery Mississippi's National Guard saluted the bravery of a soldier killed in Iraq - and of his son, who rescued a sibling during Hurricane Katrina - as First Lt. Robert C. Oneto-Sikorski was laid to rest. Oneto-Sikorski, 33, and the 155th Brigade Combat Team, was killed last month by a roadside bomb in Iraq. "On foot patrol, he saw an indentation in the road that he himself went to check out and he was fatally wounded." Cross said it was typical of Oneto-Sikorski that he would check the device himself, rather than make one of his soldiers do it. Oneto-Sikorski, and Claire Regar, the mother of his three children, were both deployed to Iraq with the 155th. Oneto-Sikorski was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and a Purple Heart, as well as the Mississippi Medal for Valor. Cross said he normally presents the Bronze Star certificate to a dead soldier's commanding officer. In this case, however, he asked Oneto-Sikorski's 11-year-old son Robert to place the certificate on an easel next to his father's casket. Cross said having the son handle the duty was appropriate because of the courage the boy displayed during Hurricane Katrina, when he swam to rescue his younger brother. The Aug. 29 storm destroyed Oneto-Sikorski's home in Bay St. Louis, a coastal town among the hardest hit in the devastating hurricane, as well as that of his mother, Elaine Oneto. His three children were evacuated to Memphis, where they have been staying with relatives. Cross said Oneto-Sikorski was among the soldiers of the 155th offered a chance to return home after Katrina, but the officer allowed another soldier to return in his place. Elaine Oneto had been on a waiting list for temporary shelter but received a mobile home after Gov. Haley Barbour and U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor, D-Miss, intervened following her son's death. sunherald.com 10 Nov 05

Missouri

Missouri lawmakers seek to restart program that gave medals to WWII veterans (Jan 02)
Missouri WWII Service Medal (Missouri veterans of World War II may now apply through the Missouri National Guard for the new World War II medallion, medal and certificate and the “Jubilee of Liberty” medal for D-Day veterans) (Sep 01)
WWII Veteran receives Missouri award (Henry Higgins, nearly 60 years after earning a Purple Heart in World War II, was presented with Missouri’s “Award for Patriotic Service” Medal) (Sep 02)

WII Service Medal – State of Missouri (Mar 01)

Many Missouri veterans get Medals (State of Missouri WWII Service Medal) (Nov 01)

Bill seeks medals for Korean War Service (State of Missouri - the Korean War medals bill. If successful, any honorably discharged veteran who served on active military duty between June 25, 1950, and July 27, 1953, and who lived in Missouri as of Aug. 28, 2001, would be eligible. The state Veterans Commission would design medallions, medals and certificates to be given to the veterans. The Missouri National Guard would administer the program) (Dec 01)

Veterans to receive medals aboard warship Two years ago, the state of Missouri established the World War II Veterans Award Recognition Program to honor veterans like Grebing and Hoskins with a medallion, medal and certificate in appreciation of their service during the war. A year later, the Missouri Legislature authorized giving the awards posthumously to the surviving spouses of World War II veterans. With the July 1 deadline to apply for the medal approaching, 930 people have qualified so far for the medal. All veterans who served in the U.S. military between Dec. 7, 1941, and Dec. 31, 1946 are eligible for the medal as long as they were honorably discharged from the service. Southeast Missourian, MO Jun 03

Veterans have longer to apply for medals The state has extended the time for veterans to apply for their Missouri World War II Service Medal. St. Joseph News Press, MO - 26 Jul 2003

Missouri Veterans Awards Program - The Veterans Award Program was first established in 2000 with the creation of the World War II Veterans’ Award Recognition (MS Word Format). World War II veterans who participated in the D-Day invasion of Europe are also eligible to receive a replica of the Jubilee of Liberty Medal (MS Word Format). In the 2003 legislative session, the Korean War Medallion was added. The Korean War award consists of a medal, medallion, and certificate. Pictures of this award are not yet available. Missouri NG Website Jan 04

Holden awards first state Korean War medal A man from Hollister is the first recipient of the state’s new medal for veterans of the Korean War. Gov. Bob Holden presented the medal to former quartermaster specialist Ronald Miller, 71, at a ceremony at the Capitol on Tuesday morning. Miller served in the 593rd Engineer Group in 1953 and 1954 after being drafted just before the end of the war. He never left the United States. The Korean War medals are modeled after a similar Missouri program that awarded medals to World War II veterans. More than 42,000 Missouri veterans received the World War II medals. More than 7,000 veterans have applied for the Korean War medals. ky3.com 11 May 04

Holden Signs Crime Package Gov. Bob Holden has signed Senate Bill 972 that solidifies into statute the Missouri Public Safety Medal of Valor. Unofficial copy of Bill 972 infozine.com 14 Jun 04
Former Bonne Terre resident honored with medal Former Bonne Terre resident, DKC Juanito Garcia Masulit, was presented with a Missouri Veterans of the Korean War medal. The award ceremony honoring Masulit along with six Veterans of WWII and 14 Veterans of Korean conflict was held on September 25, 2004, at Vandalia's 27th Annual Prairie Days Celebration. In 1953 Masulit enlisted in the U.S. Navy at Sangley Point, Philippines. He married Missouri native, Susan Hoffman in 1962. By 1965, Masulit was granted American citizenship while serving at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. During his 22 years of service, Masulit was decorated numerous times. Among the many medals and certificates he has earned are the national Defense Service Medal: One Bronze Star (1954 and 1961), Three Antarctic Service Medals: South Pole (Dec. 1955 and Feb. 1963), and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross (Oct. 1966 and march 1968). mydjconnection.com 8 Nov 04
Law extends time to claim war medals Veterans of World War II and the Korean War have more time to seek medals of recognition from the state under legislation signed by Gov. Matt Blunt. The current World War II medal program expired in July 2004, and the Korean program expired in January. That left the state with medals to give out but no authority to distribute them. The new law sets no date by which veterans or their families must apply for the medals, but instead allows them to be distributed until the medal supply runs out. More than 50,000 Missourians have received medals already, Blunt said. The measure also removes language requiring the veteran to be a Missouri resident as of 2000 or 2003, and instead allows the medals to be given to current residents and those who lived in Missouri while they served in the military. columbianmissourian.com 23 Jun 05

Montana

Montana Medal of Valor Awarded to any citizen of the state who displays extraordinary courage in a situation threatening the lives of one or more people.
- Executive Order No. 03-86 Creating the Montana Medal of Valor Advisory Council
- Recipients 2001 Discovering montana.com 20 Jul 01
Man Objects to Pilot's Posthumous Medals A man whose wife died in a plane crash in the Montana wilderness criticized Gov. Judy Martz on Monday for deciding to posthumously award the pilot a medal. Pilot Jim Long helped one of the passengers escape the wreckage before it was engulfed in flames; both died afterward. Two people on board survived the accident and spent two days walking out of the woods.Martz intends to award the 60-year-old pilot and the two survivors with Montana Medals of Valor. mercurynews.com 8 Nov 04
Governor Schweitzer Awards 2005 Montana Medals of Valor Governor Brian Schweitzer awarded 5 Montanans with the 2005 Montana Medal of Valor. Joshua Jackson, on April 5, 2004, heroically pulled Donna Ricker from the railroad tracks in Wolf Point as an Amtrak train was approaching. She had slipped and fallen onto the tracks and before most bystanders even knew what had happened, Jackson had already pulled her out of the way of the oncoming train. He has been honored by the Fort Peck Department of Law and Justice with a certificate and Medal of Heroism and a Governors Citation from former Governor Judy Martz. Curt Wood, on August 11, 2004, responded without hesitation to a car that had been hit by a freight train near Chinook. In his attempt to rescue those inside, Wood selflessly put his safety aside to extinguish the flaming vehicle. Working tirelessly, he emptied three fire extinguishers, while suffering minor injuries himself. His attempt to save the lives of Jerry Bratlien and Betty Conoy will be remembered honorably by their families. Tyler Grimm, on June 1, 2004, was traveling on U.S. 93 when he noticed a fire off to the side of the road. After he pulled over to investigate, and noticed that a car went off the road was burning, he then heard someone in the car, screaming for help. Against the advice of the 911 operator he contacted, Grimm disregarded his own safety and fearlessly pulled Joshua Dempsey out of the burning car, saving his life. Niki Alexander and Austin Stallard, on October 5, 2004, worked together to save the lives of a mother and her three year old son from a house fire in Livingston. Stallard braved the flames with only a garden hose as Alexander rushed inside the home to help. Stallard, a Corporal in the U.S. Marine Corp, used fire training he had received shortly before the incident to extinguish the flames. Alexander courageously helped the mother and her son, who were sleeping inside, evacuate the home. Both acted with great sense of duty and self-sacrifice to save the family’s lives, and have been proclaimed “Heroes” by the Livingston Enterprise. Governors have been awarding Montana Medals of Valor since the State Legislature authorized it in 1985. According to statute, “the Montana Medal of Valor is presented annually to those Montanans who display extraordinary courage in a situation threatening the lives of one or more people. The governor will present the awards on behalf of the people of Montana.” These awards are the first given by Governor Schweitzer. governor.mt.gov 13 Feb 06

Nebraska

Nebraska National Guard Medals

State of Nebraska Medal of Valor

Nevada

Two National Guard members receive medals for Iraq conduct Army Sgt. Henry Lujan and Spc. Mark Carabajal have been awarded the Nevada National Guard Distinguished Service medals, the third-highest state military award guardsmen can receive. The two Las Vegas men were awarded the medals in recognition of their conduct during insurgent attacks on the 72nd Military Police Company while their unit was deployed in Iraq in June 2003.Brig. Gen. Randall Sayre, commander of the Nevada Army National Guard, said the soldiers were injured in separate attacks when explosive devices damaged their vehicles. They also have been recommended for Purple Hearts, awarded to military personnel wounded in combat. rgj.com 27 Jan 05

New Hampshire

National Guard presents its medal for merit to governor Adjutant general for New Hampshire Maj. Gen. John E. Blair awarded Jeanne Shaheen the Charles Dick Medal of Merit for her support of the National Guard during her tenure as governor. "On her watch, the Adjutant General’s Department established a 104-acre, $3.5 million veteran’s cemetery that will allow us to honor our military veterans for years to come," General Blair said. Shaheen was also cited for her influence and support of funding and construction of National Guard facilities that will help bring the New Hampshire National Guard into the 21st century. Established in 1988, the Charles Dick Medal of Merit recognizes the contributions to the National Guard of elected representatives at the state and national levels. The medal is named in honor of Maj. Gen. Charles Dick, president of the National Guard Association of the United States from 1902 to 1909, a major general in the Ohio National Guard, a congressman and later a senator. Dick was responsible for the passage of the Dick Acts of 1903 and 1908, which established the foundation of the modern National Guard. (Jan 03)

New Jersey -

244 Vietnam vets from county receive NJ Service Medal Two-hundred forty-four Atlantic County residents received the New Jersey Vietnam Service Medal on Friday during two special award ceremonies held at Atlantic Cape Community College. The Vietnam Service Medal, was approved by the New Jersey Legislature in November 2000 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam war. (Complete list of recipients) (Nov 02)

Medal ceremony highlights bonds forged in war Brig. Gen Glenn Reith distributed 20 Distinguished Service Medals -- New Jersey's highest military award -- 37 Meritorious Service Medals, 10 Vietnam Service Medals and 48 Certificates of Appreciation. To apply for a New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal or Vietnam Service Medal, send a written request and a copy of your discharge to NJDMAVA, Attn: Service Medal, P.O. Box 340, Trenton, NJ 08625-0340. (Nov 02)

Vets receive service medals Several local residents received New Jersey Vietnam Service Medals at an awards ceremony held May 7 at the New Jersey Vietnam Veteran’ Memorial in Holmdel. Approved by the state Legislature in 2000, the medal commemorates the 25th anniversary of the ending of the Vietnam war in January 1973. The ceremony was part of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial Remembrance Day. To be eligible for the service award, a veteran must be a current resident of New Jersey, have served in the U.S. armed forces in Vietnam, Thailand, Laos or Cambodia between 1960 and 1975, and have an honorable discharge or be a current member of the military. Howell Tri Town News, NJ - 14 May 2003

State salutes its veterans for Distinguished Service (New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal) List of Recipients (First issued in 1858 but was not frequently given out until being reauthorized in 1988. Since then, more than 8,500 medals have been awarded to combat veterans. Recipients must be New Jersey residents who lived in the state when they entered military service, served in combat while on active duty during wartime and were honorably discharged) (Nov 01)

Local vets to get top N.J. medal for service The New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal, the state's top military honor, will be awarded to 69 Gloucester County residents who are combat veterans of World War I, World War II, Korea, the Bay of Pigs, Vietnam, the Lebanon crisis, the Persian Gulf and Bosnia. An additional 37 county residents who are combat veterans will receive the New Jersey Meritorious Service Medal for their service in the military. NJ.com 11 Jan 04

358 Gather to Receive Service Medal (The New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal, is awarded to state residents who lived in New Jersey when they entered the service. It was created in 1858 but the state stopped awarding it after World War II. In 1988, former Gov. Thomas H. Kean reauthorized the medal. Since then, more than 8,500 New Jerseyans have received the award. Recipients included veterans who served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, and Kosovo) (Jun 02)
Veterans recognized by county with a medal round The Gloucester County Military Service Medal (New Jersey) has been embraced by our county veterans with great enthusiasm since we began it two years ago. The Gloucester County Times, NJ - 15 Jun 2003

Vet’s receive states’s top Military Award (New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal) (Dec 01)

New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal (Mar 01)
Hunterdon veterans to get service medal Hunterdon County New Jersey residents who served in the military will be honored with the county's medal for veterans. The freeholders launched the effort to create a medal for the county's veterans in June 2002. Veterans who did not live in New Jersey when they served are ineligible to receive the state's service medal. Anyone who served in the military and now lives in Hunterdon is eligible for the county's recognition. The county had 750 copies of the medal struck and is still accepting applications. A design by Vietnam War veteran John Hatzikalfas was selected by a panel including the freeholder board and two county employees. Hatzikalfas, who served in the Army in 1966 and 1967, said he's glad that the medal county officials plan to hand out to as many as 10,000 veterans next year will bear his artwork -- the work of a veteran. The medal design shows a bald eagle superimposed over the Stars and Stripes in the shape of a "V" for "veteran" inside a ring of text that reads, "Hunterdon County Veteran. We Salute You." Below that are the words "We'll Never Forget" and five stars -- one for each branch of the armed services. On the reverse side of the medal will be the county's wheat sheaf crest. The Express Times, PA - 30 May 2003
Area vets get medals today The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs will present medals to 150 veterans. Veterans will receive either the New Jersey Distinguished Service Award or the New Jersey Vietnam Service Award or the New Jersey Meritorious Service Award.New Jersey Journal, NJ - 29 May 2003
County plans medal for vets The medals will feature the seal of Cumberland County, NJ and are based on a design used by Camden County for medals honoring their veterans. The county is aiming to honor veterans from conflicts in the years before the Korean War (including that conflict). Veterans from the years after the Korean War will be honored with the medal. Veterans who have served for at least 90 days and had been honorably discharged from the service will receive the award. It doesn't matter if they had served in peacetime or during a conflict. Bridgeton News, NJ Jun 03
Vineland man finally gets what he deserves - a medal The state's Department of Military and Veteran's Affairs has awarded roughly 15,000 New Jersey Distinguished Service Medals since 1988. Press of Atlantic City, NJ 10 Jul 03
Freeholders give county’s first Military Service Medals Regular county business took a back seat to a worthy cause as the Board of Chosen Freeholders stopped to honor the county's military veterans. The freeholders awarded the very first (New Jersey) Cumberland County Military Service Medals to 14 members of the county Veteran's Commission. The county is hoping to identify all of the eligible recipients and honor them at regular award ceremonies. Veterans Affair Officer P.J. Paten estimates that close to 14,000 county residents are eligible for the medal. The only requirements for receipt of the medal are proof of honorable discharge from any of the military branches and residence in Cumberland County. The medal depicts the County Liberty Bell, surrounded by 14 stars - one for each of the county's municipalities. The year 1748 is inscribed in the center, a reference to when the county was founded. PressofAtlanticCity.com 10 Oct 03
Medal ceremony set for Burlco veterans The Burlington New Jersey County freeholders will present the [Burlington] County Military Service Medal to veterans. Any veteran living in the county who has not yet received his or her service medal and has completed an application to receive a medal should call the Military and Veterans Services Office at (609) 265-5008. To be eligible, a veteran must show proof of residence and a copy of DD-214 or separation papers. courierpostonline.com 23 May 06

Morris Country (New Jersey)Distinguished Military Service Medal

Established in 2001 and awarded to WWII Veterans in Morris County.

Morris County (New Jersey) Korean Conflict Commemorative Medal

Established in 2001 and awarded to Korean Conflict Veterans in Morris County.

150 veterans receive medals New Jersey Distinguished Service Medals awarded. Bridgeton News, NJ 10 Jul 03
- New Jersey veterans awarded service medals - Vineland Daily Journal
- State honors area vets - Press of Atlantic City
N.J. veterans accept medals for those who can't wear them David MacArthur, a former naval officer and Green Township resident joined veterans from Warren, Hunterdon and Sussex counties at Hackettstown National Guard Armory to be honored for their service in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Lebanon Peacekeeping Mission, the Persian Gulf War and the current war in Iraq. The New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal, the highest military award in New Jersey, was originally issued in 1858 for distinguished members of the New Jersey Militia. Until 1988, when Gov. Thomas Kean reauthorized it, the award wasn't given often. Since then, more than 20,000 combat veterans have received it. nj.com 29 Jul 04
Veterans set for honors in Hunterdon County Hunterdon County (New Jersey) will honor more than 200 military veterans at a medal. The ceremony will be the second of its kind in Hunterdon County since the freeholder board initiated a program to honor veterans of the armed services with a county medal in 2002. In June 2003, the freeholders handed out 941 copies of the golden medal, but records indicate there are about 10,000 people in Hunterdon County who have served in the armed forces. Military veterans may still apply for the medal and receive it at the upcoming ceremony. Relatives of deceased military veterans may also apply to have medals awarded posthumously. The medal, created by Vietnam veteran and Flemington-area graphic designer John Hatzikalfas, depicts a bald eagle superimposed over the Stars and Stripes in the shape of a "V" for "veteran" inside a ring of text that reads, "Hunterdon County Veteran. We Salute You." Below that are the words "We'll Never Forget" and five stars - one for each branch of the armed services. On the reverse side of the medal will be the county's wheat sheaf crest. nj.com 22 Aug 04
Thanks, vets! 200 are honored with county service medal Theodore Ginsburg served as a young man in World War II and Korea fighting bravely for freedom and for his country in the Navy. On Saturday, older and gray haired, he smiled as he walked hand in hand with his wife of over 50 years out of the Cumberland County (New Jersey) Military Service Medal Ceremony. Approximately 200 veterans received the medals in the third annual event presented by freeholders and the Cumberland County Veterans Commission. nj.com 16 May 05
Medals say thanks to 10 Morris vets Michael F. Strada said members of his 82nd Airborne unit got as far as the Euphrates River in Iraq in April 1991 before they were told to turn back. Strada was one of 10 county veterans who received New Jersey Morris County Distinguished Service Medals. The other honorees were: World War II: Otto Frank, and brothers Earl and Linn Paulison; Korea: Jerome Frost and Earl Slockbower, nephew of the Paulison brothers; Vietnam: William D. Bruen Jr., Bruce Plyer and John E. Sullivan; and Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm: Lorraine Sacino Murphy. Freeholder Director Jack Schrier said the medals represent the thanks of the board for the sacrifices and service of the men and women from Morris County who entered the military. The county has presented more than 7,900 medals, he said. dailyrecord.com 27 Oct 05

69 Veterans awarded medals during ceremonies Carolyn Oattes(left) sits with her father, Henry E. Williamson of Maple Shade, after Williamson received the Meritorious Service Medal at the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs' Distinguished Service Medal and Meritorious Service Medal Ceremony. Williamson was an Army tank commander in Northern Africa and Italy during World War II. phillyburbs.com 11 Mar 05

United States

New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal

Veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States who served in time of war or national emergency and meet the following criteria may apply for award of the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal. NJ Veterans Affairs Dec 04

United States

New Jersey Vietnam Service Medal

Presented by the State of New Jersey for military service in the South East Asia Theater of Operations from 1960 to 1975. NJ Veterans Affairs Dec 04

Governor Honours New Jersey National Guard Governor McGreevey with The Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth unveiled a proposed Homeland Security Medal during the dinner at the New Jersey National Guard Consolidated Headquarters at Fort Dix. The proposed medal is the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ recommendation as a tribute to the men and women of New Jersey who have provided security to our nation and New Jersey since the Sept. 11 attacks. The medal symbolizes the NJNG’s commitment to both federal and state missions. (Jun 03)

New Mexico

New Mexico Special MacArthur Service Medal (Bataan Medal)

This medal is awarded to those who were assigned to the 200th Coast Artillery (A.A.) and served under General Douglas MacArthur in the Philippines on 7 December 1941.

New York State Regimental Ribbons (Deepwell)

2 Stewart Guardsmen Honored for WTC Sacrifice - Staff Sgt. Andrew Brunn, 28, and Staff Sgt. Jerome Dominguez, 37, responded to the World Trade Center on that horrible day in their jobs as a firefighter and a police Emergency Services Unit member, respectively, trying to get people out of the north tower when the building collapsed. Both men were posthumously awarded New York State Medals of Valor for their heroism on Sept. 11. (Sep 02)

Giuliani, Powell to receive State Freedom Medal - Former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani and Secretary of State Colin Powell will be awarded the state's highest civilian honor, the Jackie Robinson Empire State Freedom Medal. The award was created in 1997 to honor those who demonstrated determination, dignity, and fairness in the tradition of Robinson, who under death threats broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball. Two winners are being awarded this year because the ceremony was suspended last September after the terrorist attacks. Past winners included Chicago Cubs outfielder Sammy Sosa for helping victims of Hurricane Georges in the Dominican Republic and late Cardinal John O'Connor of New York. (Sep 02)

Pataki Presents Medals To National Guardsmen, Says No 9-11 ... Gov. George Pataki paid tribute to New York's National Guard members, handing out the first of a new batch of medals designed to honor those who were called to duty in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. The New York Defense of Liberty Medal was created for all the New York Guard members called into action since Sept. 11. It depicts the Statue of Liberty. Those guardsmen who served at least seven days in Manhattan will also receive a WTC decoration to pin to the medal's ribbon. Pataki presented the new medals to a representative group of 20 Guard members from throughout the state. Included were members of the New York Army National Guard, the New York Air National Guard, the New York Guard and the New York Naval Militia. (Sep 02)

Borough veterans honored with medals in St. Albans Veterans who earned awards from the federal level often are eligible to receive New York State awards, including the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross, the Conspicuous Service Star, the state Medal for Merit, the state Certificate for Valor and others. Many of the vets, however, do not know about the awards or how to file the paperwork to get them. Flushing Times Ledger, NY - 24 Jul 2003

State honors military veterans Veterans awarded medals by New York state:

Frank K. Betsinger of East Rochester, deceased, Medal for Merit.

Thomas G. Bryant of Hilton, Conspicuous Service Star and Conspicuous Service Cross.

Frank DeVeronica of East Rochester, deceased, Medal for Merit.

William M. Forbes of East Rochester, deceased, Medal for Merit.

Howard Hitchcock of Ontario, deceased, Medal for Merit

Ken Latragna of Irondequoit, Conspicuous Service Cross and Medal for Merit

Ralph Vanthof of East Rochester, deceased, Medal for Merit

June L. Fitzpatrick-McHugh of Pittsford, Medal for Merit

Joseph W. McHugh of Pittsford, Medal for Merit

Stephen D. Frederico of Rochester, Medal for Merit

Jerry L. Gropp of Fairport, Medal for Merit

Samuel A. Pallone of Rochester, Medal for Merit.

Francis P. Pittinaro of Fairport, Conspicuous Service Cross

Arthur A. Wacenske of Fairport, Medal for Merit and Conspicuous Service Star

Raymond W. Zink of Fairport, Medal for Merit. democratandchronicel.com 21 Dec 04

New York State Conspicuous Service Cross

Division of Veterans' Affairs

New York State Conspicuous Service Star

Division of Veterans' Affairs

New York State Medal for Merit

Division of Veterans' Affairs

LI soldier's final farewell Army Specialist Wilfredo F. Urbina served with the NY National Guard at Ground Zero, following the Sept. 11, 2001, terror strike. Urbina, 29, was killed Nov. 29 when an explosion sliced into the Humvee he was in while riding through Baghdad. His father was presented with a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star medal. He also received a New York State Medal for Conspicuous Service, and the state's Medal for Valor, awarded "for personal bravery" and for "gallantry and intrepidity above all comrades." . newsday.com 7 Dec 04

New York State Defense of Liberty Medal and Ribbon

Images courtesy of Ed Emering

New York state medal awarded posthumously
State Sen. John Bonacic, R-C- Mount Hope, presented Sgt. Catalin Dima with a posthumous Liberty Medal. Dima's widow, Florika accepted the award – the highest given by the state Senate – with her three children standing next to her. Dima, an Army reservist who lived in White Lake, was killed Nov. 13 while serving with U.S. forces in Baghdad. recordonline.com 21 Jan 05

Sergeant's bravery in Iraq leads to medal Army Staff Sgt. David Bellavia calls his New York State Conspicuous Service Cross an "award of geography," not valor, insisting anyone in his situation would have done what he did. He is sincere, but given what Bellavia did _ that is, kill six Iraqi insurgents during hand-to-hand combat in Fallujah last November _ unconvincing. Bellavia's commanding officers have submitted his name for consideration for the Army's Distinguished Service Cross and the Medal of Honor, the military's two highest awards. newsday.com 19 Jul 05

Batavia soldier receives state medal for combat valor

8 Area Veterans Honored with Medals James Andrecheck of Columbia, who received the New York State Conspicuous Cross with One Silver Cross Shield and Two Gold Cross Shield and the New York State Conspicuous Service Star with One Silver Shield. Chester Bednarczyk of Utica, who received the New York State Medal for Merit. David Benedict of Ilion, who received the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross and the Silver Rose. Peter Cayan of Clifton Park, who received the Medal for Merit and the Conspicuous Service Star with One Silver Shield.Lance "Bud" Purdon of Ilion, who received the Medal for Merit and the Conspicuous Service Star Dorland F. Spencer of Ilion, who posthumously received the Medal for Merit and the Conspicuous Service Star. Robert Stachowiak of Frankfort, who received the Medal for Merit with One Silver Shield. Angelo M. Staffo of Little Falls, who received the Conspicuous Service Cross with One Gold Cross Shield. uticaod.com 6 Nov 05

North Carolina

MN Native Honored For Efforts In JetBlue Landing A Minnesota native has received one of North Carolina's highest honors for successfully landing a JetBlue plane with broken landing gear. Scott Burke, 46, brought down the plane in Los Angeles, Calif. on Sept. 21 without harming any of its 140 passengers. The emergency started soon after takeoff from Burbank, Calif., when the crew noticed a caution light indicating a problem with the landing gear. North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley presented Burke with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. Watch the video of the landing wcco.com 3 Nov 05

Ohio Military Hall of Fame

Area veteran to be inducted, receive medal Some 30 years after the end of his Vietnam War service, Joe Sepesy of Boardman will receive the Ohio Medal of Valor and be inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for distinguishing himself as an Army helicopter pilot. Sepesy, an Army chief warrant officer, served three tours in Vietnam, accumulating 2,200 combat hours and suffering a broken back when the helicopter he co-piloted was shot down. Having received two Air Medals for valor, Sepesy said he recently learned that a third one, which he hasn't received, is shown in his service record. He also received three Bronze Stars and three Army commendation medals and was nominated for two Distinguished Flying Crosses. In addition, he received 74 awards for the Air Medal — one for each 25 hours of combat flying time. Youngstown Vindicator, OH - 1 Apr 2003

Oklahoma

Cross of Valor recipient Merle Inman, U.S. Army veteran, was one of 18 Oklahoma veterans awarded the Oklahoma Cross of Valor. Along with Inman, Oklahoma veterans Richard Knoblock, Wallace Tipsword, Arnol I. Sellers, Billie Jay Ferguson, William G. Eastman, Leroy D. Hess Jr., Jay E. Fimple Sr., Raymond J. Baker, Jack W. Leyh, Henry C. Wachtman Jr., Russell N. Knight, Carl D. Edwards, Charles E. Brooks, Harold DeLoss Monlux, Cullie Cliff Stone, Morton Willoughby and Jesse James Brashers, were all awarded the Oklahoma Cross of Valor. The Oklahoma Cross of Valor is awarded to Oklahoma natives who were prisoners of war. claremoreprogress.com 7 May 05

Oregon

Oregon Military Department Records Guide, 1847-1986

View summary of the major types of records, overall date spans and quantities, and useful research information. Browse descriptions of Oregon Military Department records with series title, functions, date spans, quantity, and related information. Find Web resources related to the Oregon Military Department. Dec 03

Pennsylvania

Daley reintroduces bill for civilian medal State Rep. Peter J. Daley wants the state to bestow new civilian medals of honor to veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Daley, D-California, also wants the medal to honor passengers of United Airlines Flight 93, who fought with terrorists that hijacked the plane Sept. 11, 2001, causing it to crash into a rural hillside in Somerset County. "It's times like these that we pause and recognize the many heroic efforts put forth by commonwealth residents," Daley stated in a Thursday news release. "And yet as a state, Pennsylvania has no civilian honor that can be presented to these individuals." After the crash of Flight 93, Daley proposed a law creating a gubernatorial medal, similar to the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The medals would have been presented posthumously to the Flight 93 passengers. The law passed the state House unanimously but was stalled in the state Senate. This week, Daley reintroduced House Bill 1120 with 79 co-sponsors and it is awaiting House action. The bill calls for the creation of an advisory board that would design the medal. The board would then seek private donations to pay for them to be presented annually by the governor. Washington Observer Reporter, PA - 14 Apr 2003

Pennsylvania Governor Rendell Presents Awards During PA National Guard Day at Capitol Governor Rendell, with Adjutant General Jessica L. Wright, helped present the Purple Heart to Sgt. George W. Stratton and Spc. David J. Peterson, who were injured in Iraq when an Improvised Explosive Device detonated near their vehicle during a convoy on Feb. 17. Stratton and Peterson are the first members of the Pennsylvania National Guard to receive Purple Hearts since World War II. To date, 26 members of the Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers have been wounded in action. Governor Rendell also presented the Pennsylvania Cross of Valor to Staff Sgt. Scott Sheroky. On May 7, Sheroky rescued Allen Schwartz from drowning in Marquette Lake at Fort Indiantown Gap. Sheroky had just returned from a deployment in Afghanistan. Governor Rendell also awarded the Bronze Star to Chief Master Sgt. Sam Varnicle of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, who performed meritorious achievement in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. biz.yahoo.com 8 Jun 04

Cimino receives Pa. Commendation Medal Frank Cimino of South Pear Street, was honored by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Military Affairs with the Pennsylvania Commendation Medal. Cimino was honored for his services to veterans, state, and national community programs and projects. Cimino, an honorary brigadier general, is a veteran of World War II, the Korean War, peacetime service and the Cold War. For his military services, he had been awarded the Legion of Merit, the Soldiers Medal with V-for-Valor for saving between 25 to 40 fellow soldiers’ lives, the Bronze Star Medal and an Army Commendation with Oak Leaf Cluster. zwire.com 21 Feb 05

National Guardsman honored for saving lives On Saturday, Sept. 17, 2004, Sergeant Richard Lawrence was saving lives. On that fateful day, Lawrence was at work when he received a call from his wife, telling him that the area was beginning to flood. When he went to assess the situation, he found that firefighters were having trouble driving trucks in the water. "They saw an ambulance floating down the street," Lawrence said.Lawrence informed local authorities that he had access to a 26-ton truck, which was capable of navigating the rising water. He and his daughter went to the National Guard facility in Shadyside and retrieved the vehicle. Lawrence drove to Carnegie, pulling stranded residents from deadly flood waters. The rescuers used a palletized loading system, or PLS, vehicle to traverse the waters, which had already surpassed 5 feet. Over the next 14 hours, Lawrence, his daughter and several others, including members of the borough's police and fire departments, brought 236 people to safety. While the rescuers were working, Lawrence saw a car roll over. He used the PLS to stop traffic, got out and freed the overturned vehicle's occupants. Exactly one year later, Lawrence was honored for his "act of valor above the ordinary gallantry." At the Carnegie Volunteer Fire and Rescue Bureau, he was presented with the Pennsylvania Cross for Valor. The award, which was approved by Gov. Ed Rendell, is given to members of the Pennsylvania National Guard who exhibit a high degree of heroism. It is the highest award possible in the commonwealth's national guard. gatewatnewspapers.com 21 Sep 05

West People News Gov. Ed Rendell, authorized by the military code, awarded the Pennsylvania Cross for Valor to Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Richard F. Lawrence, of Carnegie. He assisted the Carnegie Volunteer Fire & Rescue Bureau during the flooding from Hurricane Ivan in September 2004, helping in the rescue of more than 200 residents. The award acknowledges his "act of valor above the ordinary gallantry." post-gazette.com 3 Nov 05

Pfc. Jason C. Keller given Recruiting and Retention Medal Pfc. Jason C Keller was recently awarded the Pennsylvania Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Medal. Keller is a member of Headquarters Battery 1st Battalion 109th Field Artillery. He works in the battery supply section. The Recruiting and Retention Medal is awarded to officers and enlisted soldiers who distinguish themselves in support of the Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Program. Keller referred two prospective enlistees, who subsequently enlisted in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. timesleader.com 29 Nov 05

Medals ordered The wait is almost over for Cumberland County Pennsylvania veterans of the Vietnam War, who have never been formally recognized locally for service to their country. County commissioners will present a commemorative medal to Vietnam veterans. cumberlink.com 16 Apr 05

Pennsylvania Army & Air National Guard Commendation Medal
Authorized 27 May 1949 as a ribbon bar only, until about 1975 or so when the planchet was authorized and it became a medal. It is awarded for “commendable service” to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to any member of the National Guard, State Guard, or any component of the US Armed Forces or their reserve components. Bruce Dorsey

Rhodes Island

Rhode Island marine to receive star medal today Lance Corporal Edward Streker will receive the Rhode Island Star Medal for his actions during the bombing of a Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon, in October 1983. abc6.com 14 Nov 03

Tennessee

Governor speasks at Morgan funeral; presents TN Medal of Valor It is my honor to present the Tennessee Medal of Valor to Mrs.Morgan in honor of her husband, Wayne “Cotton” Morgan, and the life he led in the service of the citizens of Tennessee. wbir.com 12 Aug 05

Texas

Medals & Ribbons of the Texas Military Forces

Texas Military Forces - Medals & Ribbons

Guardsman gets distinguished service medal State First Sgt. Major Clyde Worrell visited the Lufkin National Guard to recognize Angelina County native First Sgt. Jesse D. Landers for 39 years of service in the U.S. armed forces with the Lone Star Distinguished Service Medal. A lifelong Pollok resident, Landers was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1965 and sent to Vietnam. A few years later, back in Texas, Landers chose to complete his six-year obligation in the Texas Army National Guard. He joined the local battalion in 1968. lufkindailynews.com 5 Dec 04

Utah

Huntsman honors Utah Guardsmen Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. presented Spc. Erick Lund a Purple Heart for injuries suffered in Iraq in July. Two soldiers also received the Utah Cross for bravery or life-saving, according to Maj. Hank McIntire. sltrib.com 11 Sep 05

Vermont

Vermont honors veterans with service medals The state of Vermont is honoring some of its military veterans. Governor James Douglas presented more than 100 state service medals to a group of veterans. The state first began issuing the medals in 2001. Since then more than 3,000 have been issued. capitalnews9.com 14 Jun 04

Some facts about the Vermont Veterans, Distinguished Service Medals Vermont may be eligible for the Vermont Veterans Medal or the Vermont Distinguished Service Medal. To qualify for the Vermont Veterans Medal, the veteran must have been a Vermont resident when he / she entered the military, must have had an honorable discharge or have died prior to separation, must have served at least two years and, if National Guard or Reserves, must have been mobilized and brought on active duty during a period of conflict. In order to qualify for the Vermont Distinguished Service Medal, the veteran must have been a Vermont resident when he/she entered the military, must have received an honorable discharge or have died prior to separation and must have served in a combat theatre. The State of Vermont has military discharge records of most veterans who entered the military from Vermont; however, if for some reason the discharge papers are missing, the applicant must provide them. These medals are available to veterans who entered the military while a resident of Vermont. The medal can be mailed to the veteran or to the next of kin or can be presented in a ceremony. For more information, contact the State Veterans Affairs Office at 118 State Street, Montpelier, Vt. 05620-4401, or call toll free at 888-666-9844 or me at 527-7694. thecountycourier.com 28 Jul 05

Virginia

Virginia Governor's National Service Medal

Governor Warner Awards Virginia National Guard Members with Governor’s National Service Medal “This medal recognizes the service of these soldiers and airmen, as well as the many sacrifices they and their families have made in service to their Commonwealth and country since the terror attacks of 9/11,” Governor Warner said. “With their unique dual role of serving Virginia and the nation, we all owe the men and women of the Virginia National Guard our appreciation, and the Governor’s National Service Medal honors this commitment today and for years to come.” The front side of the medal features the Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia, along with the words “VIRGINIA NATIONAL GUARD” and “FOR COMMONWEALTH AND COUNTRY,” while the reverse features a dogwood blossom and the words “GOVERNOR’S NATIONAL SERVICE MEDAL.” The ribbon and drape consist of a band of solid blue, and a band of red and white stripes, to symbolize the Virginia and United States flags.

Gov. Warner Gives Medals To Guard Members Gov. Mark R. Warner honored 40 members of the Virginia National Guard on Friday with the Governor's National Service Medal during a ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial. The new state award was created to recognize the service of Guard members called to active federal service since the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. More than 5,600 Virginia National Guard members have been called to active duty since 9/11. Most of them will receive the medal from their unit commanders at future events. wjla.com11 Nov 05

Washington State:

Four get state's first Medal of Valor Awarding the Washington State Medal of Valor for the first time, Gov. Christine Gregoire and the Legislature honored four heroes who risked their lives to save others. Jim Swett of Sedro-Woolley, Greg Meinhold of Everett and Travis Jackson and Dennis Kinsey of Clark County all qualified for the medal, established in 1999. seattletimes.nwsource.com 21 Feb 06

Washington State Medal of Valor -Regulations apps.leg.wa.gov

Ex-congressman, ambassador gets state's top honor The former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and three other renowned Washington residents received the highest civilian honor bestowed by the state, Washington State Medal of Merit. Tom Foley, a Spokane Democrat who served as House speaker from 1989 to 1995 as well as U.S. ambassador to Japan under President Clinton. The other recipients were: Dr. Lee Hartwell, winner of the 2001 Nobel Prize for Science, and president and director of Seattle's Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Helmut Braunsteiner, a longtime veterans' advocate and founder of the Veterans' Independent Enterprise of Washington, a nonprofit agency that rehabilitates drug-addicted veterans. Braunsteiner, a Tacoma resident, died last year. Ernest Gann, an author, screenwriter and preservationist. Gann, who lived on San Juan Island, died in 1991. The new award winners join 18 other recipients of the Medal of Merit since it was established by the Legislature in 1986. (Article contains list of all previous recipients) The Olympian, WA 10 Jul 03

West Virginia Civil War Medals

In 1866, the state of West Virginia authorized the minting of over 26,000 medals to honor its Union Civil War soldiers. Today, over 4,000 medals remain unclaimed. Dec 03

US Army National Guard Sites (The Ultimate List of Official US Army National Guard Unit Websites)

US Air National Guard Sites (The Ultimate List of Official US Air National Guard Unit Websites)

US Army Reserve WebSite

Police/Fire/Corrections Medals

Danbury Police Department - Departmental Decorations

Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor - H.R. 46 (McCollum, R-FL), the "Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act of 1999," establishes a medal to be awarded in the name of Congress to a public safety officer for extraordinary valor above and beyond the call of duty; S. 39 (Stevens, R-AK), the ‘Public Safety Medal of Valor Act," is similar to the McCollum bill described above and would establish a medal awarded by the President in the name of Congress to a public safety officer for extraordinary valor above and beyond the call of duty. The Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Passes the House (April, 1999)

Hartford Connecticut Police Department Awards

Sacramento Rookie Cop nets honors May,2001

Seattle Police Officers Honoured

Ventura (California) Peace Officers Association – Medal of Valor Awarded

New York Police Department

Medal of Honor

Purple Shield Medal

Combat Cross

Medal of Valor

NYPD Officers awarded Medals (Sep 00)

NYPD Officers awarded Medals (Sep 99) More

NYPD Officers awarded Medals (Sep 97)

NYPD Officers awarded Medals (Sep 96)

New York Police Department Memorial (List of Medal Recipients)

British Honours for New York’s Finest (New York mayor Rudolf Giuliani is to be awarded an honorary knighthood, while police commissioner Bernard Kerik and Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen are to be awarded honorary CBEs) (Oct 01)

Solemn Salute to 30 of City’s Finest (New York Police Dept awards Medals of Honor and Medal of Valor) More (Dec 01)

Police honor officers' Sept. 11 actions The New York Police Department awarded its highest honor Friday to three officers who risked their lives to save other officers from the ruins of the World Trade Center. Detectives Patrick McGee and Scott Strauss of the elite Emergency Service Unit received the department's Medal of Honor for refusing orders to abandon the rescue of two Port Authority police officers trapped beneath debris after the Sept. 11 terrorist attack. Officer Judith Hernandez received the medal for saving a fellow NYPD officer from the subterranean ruins of the south tower. Dozens of other officers received department medals during the NYPD's annual Medal Day ceremony (Jan 03)

Strauss Awarded Medal of Honor New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly honored three members of the New York City Police Department with its highest honor, the Medal of Honor, for heroics displayed during the attack on the World Trade Center. Among the honorees were Detective Patrick McGee, Police Officer Judith Hernandez and Detective Strauss of Mineola. (Jan 03)

Furor over 9/11 medal A Port Authority police officer who was the last man out from the Twin Towers rubble is blasting a Chester village sergeant, saying he has disgraced the memory of 9/11 New York City and Port Authority cops. Sgt. Jim Thornton has misled the public into believing that he got a Medal of Honor similar to officers who died or nearly died in the 9/11 attacks, retired Port Authority Officer John McLoughlin of Goshen says. This Battle of the Badges was set off by an Oct. 7 political advertisement in The Chronicle, a local weekly newspaper. Thornton, a Democrat running for Goshen Town Board, listed among his qualifications: "9/11 Police Medal of Honor Recipient." But McLoughlin, who is one of only five officers living to receive a Medal of Honor from either the NYPD or the Port Authority police for their actions during 9/11, called Thornton's claim a "disgrace." The criteria for the NYPD and the Port Authority Medal of Honor are the same, going only to those who died or nearly died in the line of duty. The medal, created in the late 1800s, is the highest NYPD honor. It is awarded for acts of "gallantry and valor performed above and beyond the call of duty, with full knowledge of the risk involved." Thirty-seven Port Authority police officers and 26 NYPD police officers received the medal posthumously for their actions in the 9/11 attacks. The medal that Thornton referred to was presented by the Village of Chester to four officers, including Thornton, for driving to New York City and helping with traffic control after the Twin Towers collapsed. Chester's Medal of Honor goes to officers who show "an outstanding act in the line of duty, with great personal risk involved." recordonline.com 5 Nov 05

Boy grieves as hero dad honored Seven-year-old Jacob O'Shea was proud of two things yesterday: He lost his two front teeth and his mom let him carry his dad's FDNY Medal of Valor. The medal honors his father, James O'Shea, 41, a Queens firefighter assigned to Ladder 127 who died of a heart attack Sept. 27, 2003, after battling an arson blaze in Queens. O'Shea was the first firefighter to die in the line of duty since the World Trade Center attacks. nydailynews.com 7 Oct 04

This Medal of Honor was given
to the families of the 37 PAPD Heroes

New York State Shields
Medal of Valor

New York - New Jersey Port Authority Police Department

No police department in this nation's history lost as many officers in a single incident as did the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department on September 11, 2001.

This page is dedicated to the memory of all the 37 brave and fearless members of the Port Authority Police Department, whose selfless actions and incredible courage in the face of extreme personal risk, made sure that others escaped the World Trade Center, while sacrificing their own lives, so others could live.

Bravest award Medals For the first time since Sept. 11, 2001, the Fire Department handed out its annual awards for the bravest acts of heroism in 2002. Mayor Bloomberg and Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta presented symbolic World Trade Center medals to three firefighters and an EMS worker. They accepted the medals on behalf of those who survived and helped with the rescue and recovery effort. The FDNY's highest honor was given to Battalion Chief John Pritchard, a 33-year veteran who rescued a baby from a burning apartment in Flatbush. The Medal Day ceremony was canceled last year as the department tried to recover from the attack New York Post, NY - 5 Jun 2003

Two deputies earn Medal of Valor Two Jefferson County Kentucky sheriff's deputies have been awarded special medals for their actions. Deputy Richard Keabler, an Air Force reservist who has been on active duty since September 2001, received the Medal of Valor and the Life Saving Medal for rescuing a woman from a burning car last June near Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. Deputy David Dobson received the Medal of Valor for evacuating residents from homes last August near a ruptured gas main on 21st Street. The deputies were among 17 people and two units from the sheriff's office honored last night for their community service at the County Awards and Recognition program. Medal of Exceptional Service -- Ted Lawrence and Jeffrey Glass; deputies Jerry Adams, Jim Hunt, Jesse Foley, Les Russell; and sergeants Pete Burkey, Kim Kiefer, Dave Schoengart and Gerald Bates. Louisville Courier Journal, KY Mar 03

Reservist awarded Medal of Valor Reserve Special Agent Dan McNally receives the New York Police Department's Medal of Valor from Mayor Michael Bloomberg on Jan. 17. McNally, whose regular job is that of NYPD Bomb Squad detective, received the medal for his heroic actions on Sept. 11, 2001, at the site of the World Trade Center attacks. He has been on active duty with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations since January 2002. (Photo by Scott H. Spitzer) | High-res version of this photo (Jan 03)

Firefighters hope to rescue medal A prestigious FDNY prize, awarded in 1918, was pulled off eBay this weekend by two Florida collectors. Two Florida men who sell collectibles are running into opposition from city firefighters in their bid to sell a highly prized medal on an Internet auction site. The two men said they bought a 1918 James Gordon Bennett Medal, the highest medal of valor in the city Fire Department, for $100 in a store in St. Petersburg, Fla. The medal, which is usually given to one firefighter each year, was awarded to Lt. Francis Blessing of Manhattan's Rescue Co. 1 after he and other firefighters pulled two men to safety from a burning submarine in the Brooklyn Navy Yard in 1918. The collectors put the medal up for sale on eBay, and the top bid had reached $4,650 before they pulled the item Sunday after complaints. The medal carries as much significance for firefighters as the Medal of Honor carries for members of the armed services. The medal was established in 1869 by James Gordon Bennett, the editor and publisher of the New York Herald. newsday.com 22 Mar 05

State of Illinois Law Enformcement Medal of Honor Officer Marc Bregman Awarded the State of Illinois Law Enforcement Medal of Honor. invillapark.com

Illinois awards 13 officers with the prestigious Law Enforcement Medal of Honor 2005 Recipients. illinois.gov

Illinois awards 18 Illinois officers with the prestigious Law Enforcement Medal of Honor 2004 Recipients. illinois.gov

O ’ Reilly receives Medal of Merit for rest stop arrest Lt. Stephen M. O’Reilly awarded the Massachusetts State Police’s "Medal of Merit". O’Reilly was recognized for his role in arresting 39-year-old sex offender Paul J. Leahy in a Burger King restroom on Route 24 for the murder of 30-year-old Alexandra Zapp of Newport, R.I.. The Medal of Merit is awarded for "acts of outstanding achievement," McGovern said. O’Reilly was also awarded the American Police Hall of Fame’s Medal and Citation for Excellent Arrest last October in connection with the case. He also has a state police Medal of Lifesaving. He and two other troopers pulled a man out of a burning car, lodged against a guardrail on Route 28 in Braintree. Taunton Gazette, MA - 9 Apr 2003

Dixon native to receive Medal of Valor in McHenry County A Dixon native will receive the McHenry County Illinois Chiefs of Police Association Medal of Valor for action above and beyond the call of duty in saving lives in a house fire on May 17, 2001. Sauk Valley Newspapers, IL - 10 May 2003

Officers who killed armed man among 34 receiving medals Tucson Arizona Police today will give Medals of Valor to a sergeant, three officers and a retired captain who risked their lives during a chase last year that ended with the shooting death of an armed suspect. The Unit Medal is for police projects that have a significant, positive impact on the community. Medals of Service are for exceptionally good judgment, initiative and competence and sustained records of outstanding or distinguished service. Medals of Merit are for meritorious contributions that greatly benefit the department. Medals of Valor are for conspicuous personal gallantry. Tucson citizen, AZ - 24 Jul 2003

Auburn, WA officers awarded Medals of Valor Officers Andy Suver and Greg Wood were awarded Medals of Valor for the courage they exhibited earlier this month in capturing a fleeing felon armed with three guns. King County Journal Newspapers, WA - 22 Jul 2003

St. Louis County Police Department
Citizen and Officer Recognition The purpose of an award is to recognize citizens and police officers who have distinguished themselves by performing some notable act or service in furtherance of law enforcement and community betterment. The following awards have been presented to our officers and the citizens we have sworn to Serve and Protect. Apr 03

New Mexico State Police Officer Brian Burke wears the state New Mexico Department of Public Safety Medal of Valor he received and holds a certificate commending him for his actions a year ago when he was shot in the hand and shot a suspect outside a Carlsbad club. Carlsbad Current Argus, NM - 29 May 2003

The highest honor: A medal for slain deputy Valencia County Sheriff's Deputy Damacio Montaño died in the early morning hours of Oct. 6, 2002. Eight months after his death, his memory and his sacrifice were honored in Washington D.C. at the National Law Enforcement Officers' Memorial. With memories and heartache still fresh, Montaño's family traveled to the nation's capitol on May 12 to accept the Fraternal Order of Police's National Medal of Honor on his behalf. Socorro El Defensor Chieftain, NM - 27 May 2003

Twice-decorated police sergeant cops highest honor from state
Boston police Sgt. Charles Byrne was awarded the Medal of Honor because he took a bullet in the stomach on New Year's Day 2003 but still managed to assist the partners who were under fire from a trigger-happy gunman. Byrne received the second-highest award, the Medal of Valor, twice, in 1995 and 2000. In 1993, he shot a suspect that had just fired at his partner, and in 1999, he pursued a gunman shooting into a crowd and then he tended to a victim. Other officers who received awards yesterday include: Medal of Honor - Officers Jason Kooken, David Noyes and Michael Purvis of the Amesbury Police Department, and officers Dennis Cogavin, Robert Welby, Paul Bercume, Albert Christie, James Harris and James Morrissey of the Boston Police Department. Medal of Valor - Sgt. Charles Daly and officers Daran Edwards, Thomas Sullivan, Robert Cappucci and Adam Gill of Boston; Sgt. Richard Tapper and officer Steven Kelly of the Quincy Police Department; officer James St. Croix of the MBTA Police; Sgt. Robert McCarthy and Trooper William Cameron of the state police. Merit Awards - Officers Alvin Holder, Earl Jacob, Eric McPherson, Michael Doyle, Michael Mylett, James Griffin and Sgt. John Danilecki of BPD and officers Chi Keung and Richard Lum of the MBTA Police. news.bostonherald.com 6 Oct 04

Broken Link - For information purposes Only:

Medal Bid for Fallen Chaplain (Sen. Charles Schumer yesterday called on President Bush to award the Medal of Freedom to Rev. Mychal Judge, the Fire Department chaplain who perished in the collapse of the Twin Towers while ministering to fallen firefighters) (Nov 01)

NYPD to Honor Sept 11 Heroes (Those who died will be posthumously given the Medal of Honor, the department's highest award) (Nov 01)

New York Fire Department

Medal Day 2000

Medal Winners (Jun 99)

Medal Winners (Sep 99)

Medal Winners (Feb 98)

Medal Awarded (Jan 97)

Medals Ceremony (Covers 1997/98 – Use the NEXT link on the page)

New York City Department of Corrections – Medals Awarded (Dec 97)

New York City Department of Sanitation – Medals Awarded (1997)

United States - The Ray Downey Courage and Valor Award Established - The Ray Downey Courage and Valor Award commemorates the life and career achievements of Deputy Chief Ray Downey, who lost his life while commanding rescue operations at the World Trade Center attack on September 11, 2001. Deputy Chief Downey was chief of rescue operations and a 39-year veteran of the Fire Department of New York. He was the most highly decorated firefighter in the history of FDNY. (Apr 02)

Heroes for free The Town of Hempstead, NY has awarded town firefighters with the Distinguished Service Medal. Oceanside/Island Park Herald, NY 10 Jul 03

New York City Fire Department WTC Ribbons/Medals Campaign

To recognize the extraordinary heroism and dedication exhibited by FDNY members of all ranks during, immediately thereafter and following the World Trade Center incident of September 11, 2001, the Fire Department has initiated this one-time bestowal of Ribbons and Medals to honor our members’ actions. Additionally, a corresponding Medal will be distributed with the Ribbons. The Medals are approximately the size of a silver dollar and a purple and black ribbon is attached. The Medal will be enclosed in a commemorative case. nyc.gov 2003

Firefighters, others honored for lifesaving bravery (Cleveland)

State honors Norwood firefighter with Medal of Valor Norwood fire Lieutenant Robert Henry shakes hands with Gov Mitt Romney. Henry yesterday became the first Norwood firefighter to receive the Medal of Valor from the state. He was given the medal during the 15th annual Massachusetts Firefighter of the Year Award Ceremony. On Oct. 23, 2003, Henry responded to a fire call. When firefighters arrived, the house was in flames and the doors were locked. An elderly couple was found unconscious in their bedroom. Henry pulled them from the fire, and CPR was administered, but the couple later died. dailynewstranscript.com 9 Dec 04

Local Police Officers to be Honored (Phoenixville – 3 May 01)

Fire Department honours boys for feat of Heroism (Clark County Nevada Fire Department Heroism Medal) (May 01)

Police Officer Awarded “Knight of Justice” Medal (Jun 01)

Local man receives highest civilian award for heroic rescue (Fire Chief’s Medal of Honor – Portland, Oregon) (Jul 01)

Meredith Officer honored for bravery (Meredith, New Hampshire) (Sgt. Keith True was presented a distinguished service medal on Friday, the second-highest honor that can be bestowed on a police officer) (Photo) (Apr 02)

Hamilton to honor four for bravery (Hamilton, Illinois Police) (Awards of Medal of Valor, Medal of Honor and Meritorious Service Medal) (Apr 01)

Officers Honored for Exceptional Bravery Virginia Fairfax County police officer Lance T. Guckenberger was investigating a silent hold-up alarm at a Bailey's Crossroads check cashing business the morning of Jan. 14, 2005, when things quickly took a turn for the deadly. Standing outside the business' locked door, Guckenberger could see the store's clerk inside, apparently alone and talking nonchalantly on her cell phone. The clerk waved to Guckenberger and unlocked the door by remote control.As he drew closer, the clerk shouted out a warning about a man with a gun, threatening to kill her. Guckenberger drew his firearm, knowing both he and the clerk were exposed to an unseen gunman. With his pistol in one hand, the officer scooped up the clerk with the other and shielded her with his body. They retreated out of the store as fast as possible, and ran toward his police cruiser for cover. Suddenly, the suspect burst from the store's front door. The assailant pointed his gun at Guckenberger and opened fire. The officer returned fire from behind his squad car, but the gunman had taken cover behind another parked car. The suspect, who ignored the officers' demand that he drop his weapon, started to run for a nearby gas station. Guckenberger told him to stop, but he turned and pointed his gun at the police officer. Guckenberger shot the suspect in the leg, knocking him down and ending the ordeal in his arrest. Guckenberger was among three officers awarded the Silver Medal, the highest honor bestowed on the county's public safety personnel. Gold Medals are generally only given to officers posthumously. connectionnewspapers.com 16 Mar 06

Officers awarded Medal of Valor for Heroism (Portland, Oregon - Eight police officers received the Medal of Valor, which honors officers who knowingly risk their lives to save others. (May 02)

Officers receive Medals of Valor (Daytona Beach, Florida - Volusia County Corrections officers Michael Reyes and Ted Seaman awarded Medal of Valor. (May 02)

Ceremony honors correction workers (State of Connecticut Department of Corrections – Awards of Medal of Valor, Distinguished Service Medal, and Preservation of Life Medal) (Aug 01)

A Dedham (Boston) Police officer injured in the line of duty last year was awarded a distinguished medal of honor for bravery Tuesday at a State House ceremony attended by town and state officials. Officer Michael Buckley received the highest honor at the 19th annual George L. Hanna Memorial Awards. Buckley was honored for bravery he displayed during a shootout with a carjacking suspect Feb. 16, 2001. Merit and valor awards were also given to officers, sergeants and troopers from four other Massachusetts police departments. (Oct 02)

Trooper awarded Medal of Honor State Trooper Daniel Bavosi awarded Connecticut State Police Medal of Honor. Several other troopers honored during the awards ceremony, Sgt. John Hardell and Troopers Mark Gendron and James Nicholson were awarded Life-saving medals while Trooper James Kodzis received a Medal for Outstanding Service. (Oct 02

Firefighter awarded Medal of Bravery Memphis firefighters Tim Gregantti, Jed Johnson and Lt. Jim Cunningham began rescue operations for two victims of an apartment fire. Two more lieutenants located the other two children involved, while two more firefighters who joined the rescue located and removed the mother.More than a year later, the four firefighters and three lieutenants received the Medal of Bravery, during the Memphis Fire Department’s memorial and recognition services for firefighters. (Oct 02)

Bartlesville Firefighter Awarded For Bravery Captain Jim Fugate was honored with the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association's Medal of Valor, given to firefighters who exhibit extreme bravery. (Nov 02)

Firefighter receives Valor Award for heroism Firefighter Hidekatsu Kajitani wears a State of Indiana Fire Marshal's award for valor for his role in rescuing a tower worker in January. The Valor Award is given six to eight times a year. tribstar.com 3 Mar 05

Seattle Washington Police to honor officers for valor, service Medals of Valor were awarded to Officers Martin Heuchert, John Brooks and Dave Terry, for their actions last November while facing an intoxicated Anthony James Shuster, 21, who was armed with a knife and threatening to stab officers and himself at his boardinghouse in Lake City. Officers Mike Waters and Dan Espinosa, for apprehending an armed robber who shot at them while trying to escape last November. Officer Jeffrey Johnson, who shot and killed Adam L. Alexander in January on a University Way Northeast sidewalk. Officers Steve Kaffer and Michael Meder, for a shootout with a domestic-violence suspect in West Seattle in January 2001 that left a police dog wounded and the suspect dead. The awards ceremony also will include a Medal of Courage for a police parking-enforcement officer, June Hell, who helped save the life of a woman whose car crashed in the University District in January by giving first aid until paramedics arrived. (Oct 02)

Humble hero: Deputy gets medal for fiery rescue Deschutes County sheriff’s Deputy Michael Takagi was sweating a bit Wednesday, but you couldn’t wipe the smile off his face if you tried, as Sheriff Les Stiles pinned a first-ever county Medal of Honor on the deputy’s uniform for his heroic actions to save two colleagues’ lives in the face of a furious wildfire at Davis Lake last July. bend.com 24 Mar 04

Chief recognizes 2 police officers for bravery Two Phoenix Arizona police officers were recognized for their courage and quick thinking. Officers Tony Ruelas and Mark Figueroa will receive the department's Medal of Merit for risking their lives and preventing a suicidal transient from igniting a cigarette lighter while sitting in a pool of gasoline. The Medal of Merit is the department's third highest award, just behind the Medal of Valor awarded to survivors of officers killed in the line of duty and the Police Shield, awarded to officers who sustain a significant injury in the line of duty. "Medal of Merit ... (is awarded) for an act of courage and dedication to duty during the actual performance of a police service involving significant risk or danger to personal safety," according to the department. (Dec 02)

Honored officer sure of her calling An assault with a tractor-trailer last January did more than earn Clayton County Georgia Officer Rebecca Hunter the Police Department's Medal of Valor. The department awards the Medal of Valor rarely. The last one was given about five years ago. (Dec 02)

Officer receives 2 Medals of Valor The Indianapolis Police Department honored 79 officers Thursday for various acts of service, along with 21 residents. Leading the way was Sgt. Charles Butler, a 16-year veteran, who received two Medals of Valor, IPD's second-highest award. Other Medal of Valor winners: Officer James Smith, 33, who had a gun pointed at his head during an undercover narcotics investigation Aug. 5. Sgt. Tom Kern and Officers Jeff Doughty and Dave Gard, who confronted a suspect near Washington Street and Shortridge Road on July 31. He pulled out a palm-sized firearm, police said. Gard shot the man, who survived. Officer James Lopossa. On April 29, Lopossa and his K9 partner successfully tracked a suspected robber of a Village Pantry to a house. The suspect still had a gun in his hand, and police were worried the suspect could have shot an unsuspecting officer when the dog found him. Medals of bravery went to: Doug Cook, Rob Foster and Clifton Jones for saving a suicidal woman March 5 as she tried to jump from a bridge railing on the Morris Street overpass of I-65. Dave Everman, Greg Hagen, Corey Shaffer, Bruce Smith and Larry Wheeler. (Dec 02)

Two deputies earn Medal of Valor Two Jefferson County Kentucky sheriff's deputies have been awarded special medals for their actions. Deputy Richard Keabler, an Air Force reservist who has been on active duty since September 2001, received the Medal of Valor and the Life Saving Medal for rescuing a woman from a burning car last June near Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. Deputy David Dobson received the Medal of Valor for evacuating residents from homes last August near a ruptured gas main on 21st Street. The deputies were among 17 people and two units from the sheriff's office honored last night for their community service at the County Awards and Recognition program. Medal of Exceptional Service -- Ted Lawrence and Jeffrey Glass; deputies Jerry Adams, Jim Hunt, Jesse Foley, Les Russell; and sergeants Pete Burkey, Kim Kiefer, Dave Schoengart and Gerald Bates. Louisville Courier Journal, KY Mar 03

Firefighters Honored Three Peoria firefighters will be honored by the state of Illinois for trying to save the lives of two children who died in a house fire last year. Fire engineer Chance Barlow will receive the Medal of Honor, the highest award given by the state for bravery. He is currently overseas with the Illinois National Guard. Fire Captain David Clarke and firefighter Joey Camp will receive the Medal of Valor. Through the flames and poor visibility they found both four-year-old Jacob Dye and his sister, Desiree, but the two children did not survive the fire. WEEK-TV Peoria bravery award winner serving in Iraq - WQAD

Cotton Morgan's partner receives Medal of Valor Larry Harris received the Tennessee Department of Corrections Medal of Valor. Harris's partner, Wayne "Cotton" Morgan, got shot outside the Roane County Courthouse, when Jennifer Hyatte tried to bust her husband George out of custody. Harris shot back. 11 of the 12 bullets he fired hit the Explorer the Hyattes were in. One hit Jennifer, hurting her enough to slow down their escape. Cotton died, but no one else did. wbir.com 23 Sep 05

Washington State Law Enforcement Medal of Honor
List of Recipients, etc.
Mar 05

Selfless, heroic' trooper honored Donald "Bill" Booher had just come on duty to work the afternoon shift when the call came in that a distraught woman was holding a gun to her head.Within minutes, the state police corporal was able to defuse the situation, grabbing her gun just before she pulled the trigger. The hammer came down on the webbing between his thumb and index finger, preventing it from firing. Booher received the highest award bestowed by the state police Wednesday when Commissioner Jeffrey B. Miller presented him with the Washington State Police Medal of Honor.Washington Observer Reporter, PA - 1 Aug 2003

Dundalk Station Firefighters get Bronze Stars for Bravery Kelly Weiss (left) and Louis Dixon Jr. were lauded with Bronze Stars by the Baltimore County Maryland Fire Department for bravery in rescuing a woman from a burning Yorkway apartment in October. dundalkeaglecom 17 Mar 06

Wicker Park Beat Cop Retires After 36 Years He may be one of the most decorated police officers in Chicago history and Friday was his last day on duty. Sergeant William Jaconetti retired after a distinguished 36-year career -- most of it as a beat cop in Wicker Park. Jaconetti has received nearly 150 awards for heroism and bravery. His heroism was never greater than on February 16, 1979, when he heard a radio call from another officer responding to a stick-up and hostage situation at a neighborhood jewelry store. For his bravery, he was given the Lambert Tree Award. "Which is the medal of honor for the city of Chicago, that's the city's highest award," cbs2chicago.com 15 Jul 05

Northwood: Officer gets medal of valor For displaying extraordinary bravery last year, police Officer John Romstadt became the first member of the Northwood Ohio Police Department to receive the rare medal of valor. toledoblade.com 16 Jun 05

Linda Huff awarded Medal of Honor Governor Dirk Kempthorne on Friday, May 13, awarded the first Idaho Law Enforcement and Firefighting Medal of Honor posthumously to fallen Idaho State Police Trooper Linda Huff, who was gunned down in the parking lot of the Idaho State Police headquarters in Hayden in 1998. kvpress.com 19 May 05

East Texas Firefighter Receives the Star of Texas Award An East Texas firefighter who lost his life in the search for the Space Shuttle Columbia debris recently received the Star of Texas Award. Charles Krenek was working for the Texas Forest Service searching for debris last year, when the helicopter he was in crashed, killing him and another on board. The Star of Texas is given to those who show bravery and courage by helping others in emergency situations. ktre.com 12 Sep 04

Hero takes the call: Robert Richards receives Medal of Valor Allen firefighter and paramedic Robert Richards had only one thing in mind when he rushed into an apartment building, with fire spreading, to save an invalid resident on Nov. 20: Get in and get out. Little did he know that less than one month later, he would be awarded the Allen Fire Department's first Medal of Valor at the Allen City Council meeting on Dec. 13. Richards was filling in for a co-worker Nov. 20 when firefighters were dispatched on a fire call at about 4 a.m. Richards was on the first engine to arrive, and when he stepped off the truck, a woman came rushing up, saying that her invalid father was still in his apartment. The fire was spreading quickly, and Richards said he didn't have time to wait for more personnel, so he went to search the apartment. "He could have waited for more firefighters to arrive and hoses to be put in place, but he knew there wasn't time and the man inside wouldn't live," said Allen Fire Chief Bill Hawley. Richards said when he got to the bedroom, the man was standing next to his bed with his walker. After the man hesitated, Richards said he grabbed him around the chest and carried him out of the apartment. zwire.com 22 Dec 05

Benton firefighters lauded for efforts Three Benton (Arkansas) firefighters display the special awards they received in a ceremony this morning at Woodall Central Fire Station. From left are Capt. Joey Brannon, who was seriously injured in a Dec. 20 fire at Fikes Fire Station and received the Fire Department's Certificate of Recognition; Capt. Mark Mills, who received the department's Award of Valor; and Firefighter Greg Davidson, who received the department's Certificate of Recognition. bentoncourier.com 17 Feb 05

Virginia Beach (Virginia) Police Department Awards

Detailed list and images of medals awarded to Police Officers

Oklahoma City Police Department

Follow Police Awards Link

List of Recipients

Connecticut State Capitol Police - The Medal of Valor shall be the highest award that may be bestowed upon any member of this agency. It shall be awarded only in exceptional instances involving extremely hazardous circumstances in which a member has actually risked his or her life in the performance of duty. The acts or acts performed shall be of an extraordinary nature, beyond the call of duty, which exposed the member's life to extreme danger, or resulted in the member's death. Click here for other Connecticut State Capitol Police Medals

Medal of Valor state trooper dies at 74 A former Michigan State Police trooper Douglas Albert Vogel has died. On Sept. 5, 1958, state police commissioner Joseph A. Childs awarded the Medal of Valor to Vogel the highest tribute by the department for bravery while attempting to apprehend bank robbers. lenconnect.com 22 Nov 03

Warren Michigan officer receives medal of valor Jeanne Pileri looks at the medal of valor awarded to her husband, Warren police Sgt. Jeffery Pileri, for his actions in preventing a murder-suicide. The Macomb Daily online edition 13 Dec 03

State Police Honor Bravery Trooper Shawn Dillard received the Pennsylvania State Police Purple Heart, one of the agency's highest honors for bravery. On Dec. 16 of 2001, Dillard responded to a Dauphin County house, where a man was threatening to kill himself. The man then shot Dillard in the hand and foot. The wounded trooper helped arrest the man. thewgalchannel.com 16 Jan 04 Note: Video shows close-up of medal

Ward, Jock honored for bravery Corsicana Texas Police Officers Paul Ward, left, and Robbie Jock recently received the Medal of Valor and the Medal of Merit respectively. Corsicana Daily Sun online 29 Feb 04

Riverside County Sheriff's Department (California) Medal of Valor
List of recipients

Elyria Police Department Awards (Ohio)

7 officers win awards for their bravery St. Louis County Missouri Police Officer Jason Neuman, right, shares his Medal of Valor with his daughter, Melissa, 2. St. Louis Officer James Debisschop and his partner, Kurt Wagner, confronted an armed bank robber April 17 and shot the man when he pointed his weapon at the officers. The pair, along with five other officers, were honored with the Medal of Valor, which recognizes bravery exceeding the normal demands of police work. This year's recipients also included St. Louis Officer Gabriel Keithley and his late partner, Officer Nicholas Sloan, who were both shot Jan. 30 while confronting a drug suspect; and three St. Louis County officers, Eric Austermann, Jason Neuman and Christine Romo, who evacuated the residents of a burning apartment building through thick smoke and flames on March 6. stltoday.com 18 Nov 04 St. Louis County Police Department Medals

State Police Award Ceremony - On May 31, Massachussttes State Police honored forty-two award recipients for performing acts of bravery and for conducting public service and police work that went beyond the call of duty." mass.gov 31 May 05

Law Enforcement Agencies on the Web (Cecil Greek) (The Ultimate List)

American Police Hall of Fame (Information on medals awarded) (Mar 02)

Fraternal Order of Police Website

Broken Links - For information purposes only:

Dallas officers are honored for bravery (Dallas Texas Police officers awarded Police Medal of Valor) (Aug 01)

Harrison County Fire Service Medal of Valor Awarded (Feb 2001)

Portland Police Officers Awarded Medal of Valor (Mar 01)

Chicago Police Lifesaving Medal

Texas Highway Patrol Assoc. - Medal of Valor

Ontario California Firefighter annual Medal of Valor awards (Sep 01)Thousands expected at cop’s Funeral (Awarded New Jersey State Fraternal Order of Police Medal of Honor) (Jul 01)

Wounded Dover Police Officer honored with a Purple Heart (Dover Delaware Police) (Oct 01)

London Graduate honored with Medal of Valor (Mark Beathard, a California Highway Patrolman in San Diego, was honored with a Special Act Medal of Valor) (Photo) (Oct 01)

Monrovia, Police Distinguished Service Medal

6 police officers win San Diego's first Purple Hearts

Three lifesavers honored by Sheriff’s Department (Tuscon, Arizona – Sheriff’s Citizen Medal and Public Safety Achievement Medal) (Nov 01)

ROTC Medals

US Air Force ROTC Ribbons

Army Junior ROTP Ribbons

Junior ROTC Awards and Decorations

US Army JROTC Ribbons

National Awards

Army ROTC Cadet Awards (Grunt)

Air Force ROTC Sites (The Ultimate List of Official US Air Force ROTC Unit Websites)

JROTC

Army Junior ROTC Cadet Awards (Grunt)

Navy Junior ROTC Ribbons (Navy JROTC Website)

JROTC Websites (The Ultimate List of Official Army, Navy Air Force, and Marine JROTC websites)

Two named to Legion of Valor Justin Holt is one of only 22 students in the country honored this year with the JROTC Legion of Valor Bronze Cross for Outstanding Achievement. Before the latest honor, Holt already had received a number of awards, including the Sons of the American Revolution Medal, the Reserve Officers Association Medal, the American Legion Medal for Scholastic Excellence, the Association of the U.S. Army Medal, Ranger Summer Camps Medal, the Color Guard Medal (twice) and the JROTC Superior Cadet Medal (three times). Holt is one of two Rowan County students to earn the prestigious Legion of Valor medal. East Rowan High School student Billy Lyerly also received the award. Salisbury Post 06 Nov 03

Sea Scouts

(c. 1938)
(c. 1970)
(c. 1980)
(c. 1995
(c. 1998)

Skipper's Key

United States - Sea Scouts - Quartermaster Medal

The Quartermaster Medal is the highest award in Sea Scouting and is as prestigious as the Eagle Award. It represents fulfillment. It results from a Sea Scout's determination to reach a goal he or she has set and achieved in spite of difficulties along the way. The Quartermaster Award is a badge of color, beauty, and symbolism, but most of all, of challenge, awaiting every Sea Scout who has the determination to achieve excellence. The National Sea Scouting Committee has redesigned the Quartermaster Award medal, adding a double carrick bend from which a high quality, admiralty blue ribbon is suspended. (Mar 03) (Ref: http://www.seascout.org )