Medals Database – Medals from the United States

Medals from the United States

American Medals, Awards and Badges from the Great War, WW2 and more.

The United States has a number of medals, service ribbons, and badges that recognize military service and personal accomplishments while a member of the U.S. Armed Forces. They display the highlights of a service member’s career, and each service has its order of precedence. Below you will find a list of all the medals and awards issued by the United States from before the Great War to today.

Read more: Gulf War / Desert Storm MedalsVietnam War MedalsNASA and Space Flight MedalsThe New York City Police Department Medals and Awards

Popular United States Medals, Orders & Decorations

Explore the most renowned and esteemed medals, orders, and decorations bestowed by the United States, including the Purple Heart (the oldest military award still given), the U.S. Medal of Honor (the most prestigious decoration), and the Silver Star (a distinguished medal for gallantry and valor).

The Purple Heart - American Military Medals & Awards

The Purple Heart

The Purple Heart is a military decoration from the United States awarded to those wounded or killed while serving with the U.S. military.

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All United States Medals
from the Pre-WW1 Period

Before World War I, the United States awarded various military medals to recognize valor and service. These included the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military decoration (it was established in 1862), and campaign medals specific to certain wars or military operations, such as the Indian Wars Campaign Medal, Spanish Campaign Medal, and Philippine Campaign Medal. The U.S. military also recognized long and meritorious service and good conduct for specific military branches. Find these and more Pre-WW1 medals and awards below (you can click on the buttons to see more).

The Southern Cross of Honor - American Medals USA, Pre-WW1

The Southern Cross of Honor

The Southern Cross of Honor a commemorative medal established by the United Daughters of the Confederacy to honor Confederate veterans.

The Mexican Service Medal - American Medals, Pre-WW1

The Mexican Service Medal

The Mexican Service Medal is an American award given for service in Mexico from 1911 to 1919. It was established in 1917.

The Indian Campaign Medal - American Medals from Pre-WW1

The Indian Wars Campaign Medal

The Indian Campaign Medal was a decoration established in 1907 for participants of the American Indian Wars against the Native Americans.

All United States Medals from
The Great War (WW1) Period

During World War I, the United States recognized the courage, sacrifice, and exemplary service of its military personnel through various medals and decorations. These awards were bestowed upon individuals who displayed exceptional valor, leadership, and dedication to duty during the conflict.

WW1 Medals and Awards: The Silver Star

The Silver Star (USA)

The Silver Star Medal is the United States Armed Forces’s third-highest personal decoration for gallantry and valor in combat.

Keep scrolling for Interwar and WW2 medals ↓

Featured Articles about the United States

Delve into captivating articles that offer in-depth insights into various aspects of the United States. From historical events and influential figures to cultural phenomena and significant milestones, these articles hope to provide a comprehensive exploration of the diverse and fascinating aspects of American history, society, and culture.

All United States Medals from
The Interwar Period (1918-1939)

Explore the medals awarded during the interwar period, a time of peace-building, technological advancements, and military preparations, and discover the significance of these honors and the stories of those who received them in the years between World War I and World War II.

The 1935 Texas Rangers Badge

The 1935 Texas Rangers Badge

The 1935 Texas Rangers Badge is a shield overlaid with a circle star. It was the first official badge by the Texas Dept. of Public Safety.

The Purple Heart - American Military Medals & Awards

The Purple Heart

The Purple Heart is a military decoration from the United States awarded to those wounded or killed while serving with the U.S. military.

All United States Medals from
The WW2 Period (1939-1945)

Step into the crucible of World War II, where brave soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines fought against tyranny and oppression. Dive into the medals awarded for acts of heroism, meritorious service, and valor during one of the most significant conflicts in human history.

The Medal for Merit (USA) - American Medals & Awards, WW2

The Medal for Merit (USA)

The Medal for Merit was created during World War II to award civilians for distinguished and exceptionally meritorious conduct.

American WW2 Medals - The Navy and Marine Corps Medal

The Navy and Marine Corps Medal

The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest non-combat decoration awarded for heroism to the members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

The Air Medal (USA) - WW2 American Medals & Awards

The Air Medal (USA)

The Air Medal is a decoration of the U.S. Armed Forces created in 1942 and awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement.

The Legion of Merit - WW2 American Medals & Awards

The Legion of Merit

The Legion of Merit is a military award of the United States Armed Forces for exceptionally meritorious conduct and outstanding services.

The Bronze Star Medal - WW2 American Medals & Awards

The Bronze Star Medal

The Bronze Star Medal (also known as Bronze Star) is a United States decoration awarded for heroic achievement or service in a combat zone. 

All United States Medals from
the Post-WW2 Period (1945 onwards)

Discover the medals that emerged in the post-WWII era as the world grappled with the challenges of a new era. Witness the recognition bestowed upon those who contributed to the defense of democracy, peacekeeping efforts, and the safeguarding of national interests during the Cold War and beyond.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom - AmericanMedals, Badges & Awards Post-WW2

The Presidential Medal of Freedom

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is an award bestowed by the President of the United States. It is the highest civilian award of the USA.

The Commendation Medal - Army - USA Military Medals

The Army Commendation Medal

The Army Commendation Medal is a mid-level U.S. military decoration presented for sustained acts of heroism or meritorious service.

Further Reading About American Medals and History

Explore books that delve into the rich history and significance of American military medals and decorations and discover stories of valor, sacrifice, and bravery that have shaped the legacy of these esteemed awards.

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