- Time Period: Second World War
- Institution: 20 July 1942
- Country: United States
The Medal for Merit stood as the preeminent civilian honor within the United States, bestowed by the President. Originating in World War II, it was conferred upon individuals who showcased exceptional merit in rendering outstanding service during the war effort, following the declaration of emergency by the President on September 8, 1939.
The medal could be awarded to:
“Civilians of the nations prosecuting the war under the joint declaration of the United Nations and of other friendly foreign nations”
Individuals from foreign nations were eligible to be honored with the award for exhibiting remarkable merit or bravery in support of the Allied war efforts against the Axis Powers, too. The inaugural non-American recipient of this distinction was Sir Edward Wilfred Harry Travis, Director of the British Government Code and Cypher School during World War II, recognized on January 12, 1946.
The Medal for Merit Design
The Medal for Merit is made of gold-finished bronze and decorated with enamel. It features a bold eagle and a circle of white stars on a dark blue background.
The ribbon is red with two thin central white lines.
