- Time Period: Interwars Period
- Institution: 27 November 1927
- Country: Italy
The Medal of Aeronautic Valor (or Medaglia al valore aeronautico in Italian) is a medal awarded “for acts and enterprises of singular courage and skill aboard an aircraft in flight.“
Proposals for a medal awarded to aviators had begun as early as 1913 but were put on hold with the outbreak of World War I. The medal was finally instituted by Victor Emmanuel III of Italy‘s decree of 27 November 1927. The criteria for conferral remained virtually unchanged until 1939, when a decree restricted its award solely to members of the Italian military. In 2010, the medal was absorbed into the Italian Military Code. The principal change was the restoration of eligibility to civilians.
The Medal of Aeronautic Valor Criteria
Instituted in 1927, it is awarded at three levels: Gold, Silver and Bronze. The medal may be conferred on both Italian and foreign persons and entities and on both civilians and members of the Italian armed forces. It can also be awarded posthumously.
Prior to the outbreak of World War II, the recipients were primarily those who had distinguished themselves in air races or had set speed and distance records. However, the medal was also awarded for participation in daring air rescues.
The Medal of Aeronautic Valor Design
From 1927 to 1945 the Obverse of the medal shows The Savoy Cross surmounted by an eagle with spread wings. Above the eagle is the Crown of Savoy. The Reverse shows Two fasces with the name of the recipient and the place and date of the award engraved between them.
