Military medals serve as tangible symbols of honor, valor, and sacrifice, representing the bravery and dedication of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. But regardless of whether you are a veteran seeking to claim medals earned during your service or a family member seeking to honor a loved one’s military legacy, navigating the process of applying for military medals can sometimes be complex and daunting.
In this guide, I ll walk you through the step-by-step process of applying for US military medals, including tips and resources to help you successfully navigate the application process. From determining eligibility and gathering required documentation to submitting the application and following up on its status, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and successful experience.
Who Can Apply for a US military Medal?
Any individual who has served in the United States Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard, is eligible to apply for US military medals. Additionally, certain family members of deceased veterans or veterans unable to apply themselves may also be eligible to apply on their behalf. You can also request a replacement medal.
Generally, veterans themselves or their next of kin, such as surviving spouses, children, or parents, are the ones who typically apply for military medals. However, specific eligibility criteria may vary depending on the type of medal and the circumstances of the service member.
How to Apply for a US Military Medal Step by Step
Receiving recognition for one’s military service through the award of a military medal is a significant honor, not only for the individual veteran but also for their family and loved ones. As we have mentioned, though, the process can seem a little daunting at fist. So here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a US military medal.
Step 1:
Gather The Necessary Information
The first thing you will need to do is collect the veteran’s full name, date of birth, service number or Social Security number, branch of service (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard), and dates of service (start and end dates).
You should try to obtain any available documentation related to the veteran’s military service, such as discharge papers (DD Form 214), military orders, awards citations, and other official records. The National Archives can help you request military service records online. This website also allows you to check the status of your request. Just remember that recent records won’t be online.
Step 2:
Determine Eligibility
The next step is to research the specific eligibility criteria for the military medal you wish to apply for. Eligibility may vary depending on factors such as the veteran’s branch of service, length of service, and the nature of their service (e.g., combat versus non-combat).
For example, the US Army has a thorough list of all service, campaign medals, and foreign awards that include detailed eligibility criteria.
You will need to ensure that the veteran meets all eligibility requirements before proceeding with the application.
Step 3:
Obtain Required Forms
Visit the official website of the branch of service or the Department of Defense to locate and download the appropriate application form for the desired military medal.
Each branch typically has its own designated form for requesting medals and awards, so be sure to use the correct form. Here’s a list of the different forces:
Step 4:
Fill Out the Application
- Complete the application form accurately and thoroughly, providing all requested information. Use legible handwriting or type the information if submitting an electronic form.
- Include details about the veteran’s service history, such as dates and locations of service, units or commands served with, and any relevant personal or contact information.
Step 5:
Provide Proof of Service
- Gather supporting documentation to substantiate the veteran’s eligibility for the medal being requested. This may include copies of military orders, awards citations, performance evaluations, or other official records.
- Ensure that all supporting documents are legible and clearly indicate the veteran’s name, service dates, and other pertinent details.
Step 6:
Submit the Application
- Carefully review the completed application form and attached documents to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Follow the instructions provided on the application form or official website to submit the application to the appropriate address or military records repository.
- Consider sending the application via certified mail or with delivery confirmation to ensure it is received and processed promptly.
Step 7:
Await Processing
- Allow time for the military awards office to review and process the application. Processing times may vary depending on factors such as the volume of requests and the complexity of the veteran’s service record.
- Be patient and avoid contacting the awards office for status updates unless a significant amount of time has passed without any communication.
Step 8:
Receive the Medal
- Once the application is approved and processed, the military medal will be issued and mailed to the applicant’s provided address.
- If the medal is being awarded posthumously or on behalf of a deceased veteran, it may be presented to the next of kin or designated recipient as specified on the application form.
How to Follow Up on a US Medal Application
If there are any delays or issues with the application, contact the appropriate military records office or point of contact for assistance. Provide any additional information or documentation requested by the awards office to facilitate the processing of the application.
Upon receiving the military medal, express gratitude for the honor and recognize the veteran’s service and sacrifice. You should display the medal with pride, either by wearing it on appropriate military attire during formal occasions or by presenting it in a display case or frame for commemoration and remembrance.
Here are some additional resources that might come in handy:
