What are the requirements to receive an Air Medal?

11, 1942. The Air Medal is awarded to U.S. and civilian personnel for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievements while participating in aerial flight and foreign military personnel in actual combat in support of operations.

How do you get a Navy Cross Medal?

Today, the Navy Cross is presented to those who distinguish themselves through extraordinary heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. Their actions must take place in a situation of great danger, or at great personal risk to themselves.

How are air medals awarded?

The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

How many combat sorties do you need for an Air Medal?

Armed aircraft crews require ten sorties for each award, while all others require twenty sorties. The United States Secretary of the Air Force approved the “V” Device for Air Medals awarded for heroism in combat effective October 21, 2004.

How do you get a Distinguished Flying Cross?

This medal is awarded to any officer or enlisted person of the armed forces of the United States for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. Both heroism and achievement must be entirely distinctive, involving operations that are not routine.

Is the Air Medal equivalent to a Bronze Star?

When the Distinguished Flying Cross was established, no one could have foreseen the extent of aerial combat that World War II was to witness. To protect the importance of the DFC from being diminished, the Air Medal was established as the aerial equivalent of the Bronze Star.

Who has been awarded the Air Force Cross?

Recent Recipients

Name Rank Occupation
John Chapman† Technical Sergeant Combat Control (CCT)
Jason D. Cunningham† Senior Airman Pararescue (PJ)
Zachary Rhyner Senior Airman Combat Control (CCT)
Robert Gutierrez Jr. Staff Sergeant Combat Control (CCT)

Who is eligible for the Distinguished Flying Cross?

3. Criteria: The Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States, distinguishes himself by heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight.