Combat /Heroism
When a medal is awarded to a member of the armed services, a ribbon associated with that award is issued for the bearer to wear on their dress or working uniform. The first known award was the Badge of Military Merit established by George Washington. It fell into disuse after the Revolutionary War and was revived by General Douglas MacArthur as the Purple Heart. There have been many decorations designed and authorized since the turn of the century. The front façade of the Pennsylvania Military Museum is decorated with representations of several military service ribbons that have been awarded to Commonwealth veterans throughout the last century.
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Medal of Honor (est. 1861) |
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Distinguished Service Cross (Army est. 1918) |
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Navy Cross (USN est. 1919) |
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Air Force Cross (USAF est. 1960) |
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Silver Star (est. 1918) |
Personal Awards
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Bronze Star (est. 1944) |
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Purple Heart (est.1932) |
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Army Commendation Medal (est. 1941) |
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Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal (est. 1960) |
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Air Force Commendation Medal (est. 1958) |
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Coast Guard Commendation Medal (est. 1947) |
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Prisoner of War Medal (est. 1985) |
Campaign & Service Awards
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World War One Victory Medal (est. 1919) |
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World War Two Victory Medal (est. 1945) |
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Korean Service Medal (est. 1950) |
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Vietnam Service Medal (est. 1965) |
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Pennsylvania Commendation Medal [PA National Guard] (est. 1949) |
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Major General Thomas R. White Ribbon [PA National Guard] (est. 1970) |