The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) is a prestigious military decoration, but several honors rank higher in the United States military awards system. These include awards like the Medal of Honor, the various service crosses, and the Distinguished Service Medals, each recognizing extraordinary acts of valor and meritorious service, detailed information about aviation and flight training can be found at flyermedia.net. Understanding this hierarchy offers insight into the extraordinary achievements recognized by these accolades, and highlights the dedication of those in aviation, showcasing valor, service recognition, and commitment.
1. Understanding the Hierarchy of U.S. Military Medals
What constitutes the hierarchy among U.S. military medals? The hierarchy of U.S. military medals reflects the level of valor, service, and achievement demonstrated by the recipient. It begins with decorations for combat heroism, followed by awards for exceptional service, and then medals for specific campaigns or achievements.
The Medal of Honor stands as the highest military decoration awarded for valor. Following the Medal of Honor, the hierarchy includes service crosses, distinguished service medals, and other awards recognizing bravery, meritorious service, and specific achievements or campaign participation. This order reflects the importance and impact of the actions performed. Medals are ranked to honor service members.
2. The Medal of Honor: The Nation’s Highest Award
What makes the Medal of Honor so significant? The Medal of Honor is the United States of America’s highest and most prestigious military decoration, awarded for valor “above and beyond the call of duty.” It recognizes singular acts of courage, selflessness, and sacrifice in the face of extreme danger.
Since its inception during the Civil War, the Medal of Honor has been awarded to military members who have demonstrated extraordinary bravery. The criteria for the Medal of Honor are extremely high, requiring conclusive proof of conspicuous gallantry. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, recipients have distinguished themselves through “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.” There are three versions of the Medal of Honor: Army, Navy/Marine Corps/Coast Guard, and Air Force.
2.1. Army Medal of Honor: A Legacy of Bravery
What is the history behind the Army Medal of Honor? Established in 1862, the Army Medal of Honor is one of the oldest versions of this decoration, symbolizing exceptional bravery and valor demonstrated by members of the U.S. Army. It has been awarded to soldiers who have distinguished themselves through extraordinary acts of courage.
Private Jacob Parrott was the first recipient of the Army Medal of Honor. He received the medal for his actions during a raid on a Confederate train. This award exemplifies the Army’s commitment to honoring those who display exceptional bravery and valor in service to the nation.
2.2. Navy/Marine Corps/Coast Guard Medal of Honor: Valor at Sea and Ashore
What distinguishes the Navy/Marine Corps/Coast Guard Medal of Honor? The Navy Medal of Honor, established in 1861, recognizes acts of valor by members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. This medal highlights the courage and selflessness displayed in naval operations and combat situations.
Of the 749 medals bestowed, 449 have been awarded to members of the U.S. Navy and 299 to U.S. Marines. Only one has been awarded to a member of the U.S. Coast Guard. These awards celebrate the bravery and dedication of service members in maritime and coastal operations.
2.3. Air Force Medal of Honor: Honoring Aerial Heroism
When was the Air Force Medal of Honor established? Established in 1965, the Air Force Medal of Honor recognizes extraordinary acts of valor and heroism in aerial combat and operations. Most of the 19 medals awarded have been to Air Force members who served in the Vietnam War.
The Air Force Medal of Honor acknowledges the unique challenges and risks faced by airmen in combat and operations, honoring those who demonstrate exceptional bravery and skill. These awards celebrate the contributions of Air Force personnel.
3. Service Crosses: Recognizing Extraordinary Heroism
What are the different types of service crosses? Service crosses are military decorations awarded for extraordinary heroism in combat. These include the Distinguished Service Cross (Army), the Navy Cross, and the Air Force Cross, each recognizing exceptional bravery in specific branches of the U.S. military.
Service crosses are awarded to those who display “extraordinary heroism” amid military operations that involve either a foreign force that opposes the United States of America or in the service of a friendly foreign force “against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.”
3.1. Army Distinguished Service Cross (DSC): Exceptional Valor in Combat
What does the Army Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) represent? The Army Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) is awarded for extraordinary heroism in combat. This medal recognizes acts of valor that are above and beyond what is expected of a soldier, demonstrating exceptional bravery and self-sacrifice.
The Army Distinguished Service Cross was established for the United States Army. It was used to honor those who served in World War I, and it was retroactively given to those who displayed extraordinary heroism in service of the United States of America previous to World War I.
3.2. Navy Cross: Valor and Heroism in Naval Operations
What is the significance of the Navy Cross? The Navy Cross, established in February 1919, recognizes extraordinary heroism in naval operations. This medal is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps who distinguish themselves through acts of valor in combat.
Lenah Higbee, the Chief Nurse of the U.S. Navy during World War I and the Spanish Flu epidemic, is one of the most notable recipients. Higbee was one of the first women to join the Navy Nurse Corps. The Navy Cross is a testament to the bravery and dedication of naval service members.
3.3. Air Force Cross: Acknowledging Aerial Combat Heroism
How does the Air Force Cross recognize heroism? Established in 1965, the Air Force Cross recognizes extraordinary heroism in aerial combat. This medal is awarded to members of the Air Force who demonstrate exceptional bravery and skill in the face of extreme danger.
The Air Force Cross was first created to honor those who served in the Vietnam War. Major Rudolf Anderson, Jr., who was killed during a reconnaissance mission that began the Cuban Missile Crisis, also earned it. The Air Force Cross highlights the valor and dedication of airmen in aerial operations.
4. Distinguished Service Medals: Recognizing Meritorious Service
What distinguishes the Distinguished Service Medals? Distinguished Service Medals are awarded to individuals who have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility, in combat or otherwise. These medals recognize sustained and significant contributions to national security and defense.
These medals were first established in 1918 for the U.S. Army. There are now four different versions, each correlating to the specific military branch in which the recipient has served.
4.1. Army Distinguished Service Medal: Honoring Exceptional Contributions
What is the purpose of the Army Distinguished Service Medal? The Army Distinguished Service Medal recognizes exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility. This medal is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the Army’s mission and national defense.
This was the first of all Distinguished Service Medals, first awarded on January 12, 1918. A few members of the Allied Armies during World War I, including commanding officers from France, Canada, Australia, Britain, Italy, Belgium, and Serbia, received this award. It symbolizes the Army’s appreciation for outstanding service.
4.2. Navy/Marines Distinguished Service Medal: Recognizing Maritime Leadership
How does the Navy/Marines Distinguished Service Medal honor service? Created in 1919, the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, which is also bestowed upon members of the U.S. Marines, recognizes exceptionally meritorious service in naval and maritime operations. This medal is awarded to leaders and individuals who have made significant contributions to the Navy and Marine Corps.
The Navy Distinguished Service Medal once ranked higher than the Navy Cross. In August of 1942, however, the rankings were reversed. This award highlights the Navy and Marine Corps’ commitment to recognizing outstanding service.
4.3. Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal: Acknowledging Coastal Protection
What does the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal signify? The Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal, established in August 1949, recognizes exceptionally meritorious service in coastal protection and maritime operations. This medal is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the Coast Guard’s mission.
Before that, members of the U.S. Coast Guard who met the criteria for the award were given the U.S. Navy Distinguished Service Medal. This award highlights the Coast Guard’s dedication to recognizing outstanding service in safeguarding the nation’s coasts and waterways.
4.4. Air Force Distinguished Service Medal: Celebrating Aviation Excellence
How does the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal honor aviators? The Air Force Distinguished Service Medal recognizes exceptionally meritorious service in aviation and aerospace operations. This medal is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the Air Force’s mission and national defense.
Before July 1960, the U.S. Army Distinguished Service Medal was also awarded to members of the U.S. Air Force. Colonel Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, earned the medal twice. This award symbolizes the Air Force’s appreciation for outstanding service in aviation and aerospace.
5. Silver Star: Recognizing Gallantry in Action
What criteria must be met to receive a Silver Star? The Silver Star is awarded to anyone who “is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States,” either while in military operations which involve conflict with an opposing foreign force or while in service of friendly foreign forces “against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.”
The Silver Star recognizes acts of valor in combat, demonstrating bravery and selflessness in the face of enemy forces. This medal is a testament to the courage and dedication of service members in combat situations.
6. Defense Superior Service Medal (DSSM): Honoring Joint Service Excellence
Who is eligible for the Defense Superior Service Medal? President Gerald Ford established the Defense Superior Service Medal in 1976 to honor officers of the United States military who “perform exceptionally with the Office of the Secretary of Defense, The Joint Chiefs of Staff, special or outstanding command in a defense agency or any other joint activity designated by the secretary.”
The Defense Superior Service Medal (DSSM) recognizes exceptional meritorious service in joint activities. This award highlights contributions to national security.
7. Legion of Merit Medal (LOM): Recognizing Exceptional Conduct
What achievements qualify for the Legion of Merit Medal? Established in 1942 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Legion of Merit Medal is awarded to military members and certain foreign allies for “exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements.” The award comes in four degrees: Chief Commander, Commander, Officer, and Legionnaire.
The Legion of Merit Medal recognizes exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements. This medal is awarded to both military members and foreign allies.
8. Non-Conflict Heroism Medals: Recognizing Acts of Bravery Outside of Combat
What types of actions are recognized by non-conflict heroism medals? Non-conflict heroism medals recognize acts of bravery that do not involve direct engagement with an enemy. These medals, such as the Soldier’s Medal, Navy/Marine Corps Medal, Airman’s Medal, and Coast Guard Medal, are awarded to those who have risked their lives in heroic acts during non-combat situations.
These top military medals don’t require the recipient to have engaged directly in an active conflict. They are awarded only to those who have risked their own lives in the act of heroism.
8.1. Soldier’s Medal (SM): Recognizing Heroism Outside of Combat
What constitutes heroism for the Soldier’s Medal? Awarded to a member of the U.S. military or to a foreign ally who “distinguished himself or herself by heroism not involving conflict with an enemy,” this decoration was first established in 1926.
The Soldier’s Medal (SM) recognizes acts of heroism that do not involve direct engagement with an enemy. This medal honors service members who have risked their lives to save others in non-combat situations.
8.2. Navy/Marine Corps Medal: Acknowledging Non-Combat Heroism at Sea and Ashore
How does the Navy/Marine Corps Medal recognize non-combat heroism? This non-conflict heroism medal started in August 1942. One of the most notable recipients of the award is President John F. Kennedy, who received it for rescuing members of the crew of Motor Torpedo Boat PT-109 during World War II.
The Navy/Marine Corps Medal recognizes acts of heroism that do not involve direct engagement with an enemy. This medal honors service members who have risked their lives to save others in non-combat situations.
8.3. Airman’s Medal: Celebrating Heroic Actions in Aviation
What actions qualify an airman for the Airman’s Medal? Taking the place of the Soldier’s Medal for members of the U.S. Air Force in July 1960, the Airman’s Medal is awarded to those who faced danger in the line of duty.
The Airman’s Medal recognizes acts of heroism that do not involve direct engagement with an enemy. This medal honors airmen who have risked their lives to save others in non-combat situations.
8.4. Coast Guard Medal: Honoring Heroic Acts in Maritime Safety
How does the Coast Guard Medal recognize heroism? The Coast Guard Medal was established in 1949 but not awarded until 1958. Individuals who performed heroic acts at great personal risk can earn this medal.
The Coast Guard Medal recognizes acts of heroism that do not involve direct engagement with an enemy. This medal honors Coast Guard personnel who have risked their lives to save others in non-combat situations.
9. Bronze Star Medal (BSM): Recognizing Heroic or Meritorious Achievement
What are the criteria for receiving the Bronze Star Medal? The Bronze Star Medal was established in 1944. It honors individuals similar to the Silver Star, even having nearly identical criteria. The only difference is that the standard of heroism for the Bronze Star is slightly less than that for the Silver Star.
The Bronze Star Medal recognizes heroic or meritorious achievement in combat. This medal is awarded to individuals who have distinguished themselves through valorous actions or meritorious service in a combat zone.
10. Purple Heart Medal (PH): Recognizing Wounds Received in Action
What distinguishes the Purple Heart Medal from other awards? If asked, “What are the top 10 military medals?” they would likely mention the Purple Heart. This award’s history extends back further than any other, beginning as the Badge of Military Merit in the earliest days of the American military.
The Purple Heart is awarded to individuals wounded or killed “as result of an act of any opposing armed force, as a result of an international terrorist attack or as a result of military operations while serving as part of a peacekeeping force.”
The Purple Heart Medal recognizes service members who have been wounded or killed in action against an enemy. This medal is a symbol of sacrifice.
11. The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC): Recognizing Aerial Achievement
What specific achievements does the Distinguished Flying Cross recognize? The DFC is the only one of the top military medals that exclusively involves aerial flight. It is awarded to members of the military but also civilians and foreign allies. The award requires that the recipient display “heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight.”
The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) recognizes heroism or extraordinary achievement during aerial flight. This medal is awarded to military members, civilians, and foreign allies who have distinguished themselves through exceptional performance in aviation.
11.1. Aerial Heroism and Extraordinary Achievement
What types of aerial actions are recognized with the DFC? The DFC recognizes acts of heroism and extraordinary achievement during aerial flight. This includes exceptional performance in combat, reconnaissance, and other aviation operations.
This award doesn’t necessarily involve combat. It has been awarded to various astronauts who took part in groundbreaking missions and to innovators in the field of aeronautics. It is a testament to the skill and bravery of aviators.
11.2. Notable Recipients of the Distinguished Flying Cross
Who are some of the notable recipients of the DFC? Notable recipients of the DFC include military aviators who have demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery in combat, astronauts who have contributed to space exploration, and innovators in aeronautics.
These recipients exemplify the values of courage, skill, and innovation that the DFC represents. Their achievements have advanced the field of aviation and inspired future generations of aviators.
12. Comparing the DFC to Higher Awards: A Summary
How does the Distinguished Flying Cross compare to higher-ranking awards? While the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) is a high honor, awards such as the Medal of Honor, service crosses, and distinguished service medals rank higher in the U.S. military awards system. These awards recognize more extraordinary acts of valor and meritorious service.
While the DFC recognizes significant achievements in aviation, the Medal of Honor recognizes valor above and beyond the call of duty. Service crosses recognize extraordinary heroism in combat, and distinguished service medals recognize exceptionally meritorious service.
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16. Understanding Military Decorations: FAQs
16.1. What is the highest military award in the U.S. military?
The Medal of Honor is the highest military award in the U.S. military, awarded for valor “above and beyond the call of duty.”
16.2. What is the Distinguished Service Cross?
The Distinguished Service Cross is awarded for extraordinary heroism in combat.
16.3. What is the difference between the Silver Star and the Bronze Star?
The Silver Star is awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy, while the Bronze Star is awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement in combat, with a slightly lower standard of heroism.
16.4. What is the Purple Heart awarded for?
The Purple Heart is awarded to service members wounded or killed in action against an enemy.
16.5. What is the Distinguished Flying Cross awarded for?
The Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement during aerial flight.
16.6. Are non-combat heroism medals less prestigious than combat medals?
Non-combat heroism medals recognize acts of bravery that do not involve direct engagement with an enemy but still involve significant personal risk. While they differ in nature from combat medals, they are equally valued for the heroism they represent.
16.7. Can civilians receive military decorations?
Yes, civilians can receive certain military decorations, such as the Distinguished Flying Cross, for their contributions to military operations or achievements.
16.8. How are military medals ranked?
Military medals are ranked based on the level of valor, service, or achievement they represent, as determined by the Department of Defense and individual military branches.
16.9. Where can I find more information about military medals and decorations?
You can find more information about military medals and decorations on the websites of the Department of Defense, the individual military branches, and organizations such as Medals of America.
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Air Force Cross: Recognizing extraordinary aerial heroism.
Navy/Marines Distinguished Service Medal: Awarded for exceptional meritorious service in maritime operations.
Purple Heart: Recognizing service members wounded or killed in action.
Coast Guard Medal: Awarded for heroic acts at great personal risk.
Navy/Marine Corps Medal: Recognizing acts of non-combat heroism.
Defense Superior Service Medal (DSSM): Honoring exceptional joint service performance.
Air Force Distinguished Service Medal: Recognizing outstanding service in aviation and aerospace operations.
Army Distinguished Service Cross (DSC): Awarded for extraordinary combat heroism.
Distinguished Flying Cross: Recognizing heroism or extraordinary achievement during aerial flight.
Navy/Marine Corps/Coast Guard Medal of Honor: Recognizes extraordinary valor during naval operations.
