Medals from United States from The Second World War WW2
American Military Medals & Awards of 1939-1945
During World War II, the United States played a crucial role as one of the leading Allied powers. After the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by Japan in December 1941, the United States fully committed itself to the war effort. Thus, the country deployed millions of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines to various theaters of war. American forces fought across Europe, the Pacific, North Africa, and other regions, engaging in major campaigns and battles.
On this page you will find all military and campaign medals, orders of knighthood, awards and decorations of the United States given during (and after) The Second World War, also known as WW2.
Popular WW2 United States
Medals, Orders & Decorations
During World War II, the United States established several medals, orders, and decorations to honor the bravery, service, and sacrifice of its military personnel and civilians. Explore the most renowned medals, orders, and decorations bestowed by the United States during World War II, and learn more about the events surrounding them.
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)
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
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
The Bronze Star Medal (also known as Bronze Star) is a United States decoration awarded for heroic achievement or service in a combat zone.
The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal
The Asiatic–Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded to any U.S. Armed Forces member who had served in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater during WW2.
All United States Second World War
(WW2) Medals
Through military might, industrial strength, and the bravery of its servicemen, the U.S. helped shape the course of the war and played a significant role in defeating the Axis powers. These awards were created to recognize the extraordinary contributions made during the global conflict, highlighting the heroism and dedication of those who served.
For example, the Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the USA. Established during the Civil War, it was given to members of the armed forces who distinguished themselves by acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. During World War II, numerous soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines received this prestigious award for their extraordinary bravery and self-sacrifice.
Below, you will find all the American medals and decorations created and awarded during World War II.
The Medal for Merit (USA)
The Medal for Merit was created during World War II to award civilians for distinguished and exceptionally meritorious conduct.
The Presidential Unit Citation Award (PUC)
The Presidential Unit Citation or PUC was created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on 26 February 1942 and awarded in various conflicts.
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)
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
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
The Bronze Star Medal (also known as Bronze Star) is a United States decoration awarded for heroic achievement or service in a combat zone.
The Medal of Freedom (1945)
The Medal of Freedom was a decoration established by President Harry S. Truman to honor civilians whose actions aided in the war efforts.
The Womens Army Corps Service Medal
The Women’s Army Corps Service Medal is a United States Army military award created in 1943 by President Franklin Roosevelt.
The Navy Occupation Service Medal
The Navy Occupation Service Medal is a Navy military award bestowed to commemorate the services of Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.
The Medal for Humane Action
The Medal for Humane Action is a United States Armed Forces military award created in 1949 to recognize military service members.
The European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal
The European–African–Middle Eastern Campaign Medal is a United States Armed Forces military award first created in 1942.
The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal
The Asiatic–Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded to any U.S. Armed Forces member who had served in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater during WW2.
The Army of Occupation Medal
The Army of Occupation Medal is a US military award established by the United States War Department in the aftermath of the Second World War.
The American Campaign Medal
The American Campaign Medal is a United States Armed Forces military award created on November 6, 1942.
United States Medals from the WW1 Period
During World War I, the United States established several medals and decorations to honor the bravery, service, and sacrifices of its military personnel. These awards recognized the heroic actions and significant contributions made during the conflict, helping to boost morale and acknowledge the efforts of soldiers and officers alike. Explore medals and awards from World War I below.
United States Medals from the
Post-WW2 Period
After World War II, the United States continued to recognize the service and achievements of its military personnel through a variety of medals and decorations. These awards reflect the changing nature of military engagements and the evolving role of the United States in global affairs. Explore American medals from the post-WW2 period.
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.
Further Reading About American Medals
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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