Medals

Dec 21, 2022

This is why there is no Cold War medal

The Cold War was a prolonged state of tension between the U.S. and the USSR, lasting from the end of World War II until December 26, 1991, the day the Soviet Union fell. The two superpowers were rivals on all fronts: political, economic, military…

Dec 21, 2022

Jan 14, 2022

Today’s Purple Heart medals were first made for the invasion of Japan

In May 1945, the Axis powers were all but beaten, but the war was far from over for the United States. Germany surrendered to the Allies on May 8 but a lot of work was left to be done – namely, the invasion of mainland Japan. The ongoin…

BYRadio Free Europe Radio Liberty

Jan 14, 2022

BYJessica Evans

Dec 30, 2022

Everything you need to know about the Silver Star but didn’t want to ask

As the third-highest award for bravery in combat awarded to service members in the military, the Silver Star honors those who display exceptional courage while engaged in military combat operations against enemy forces. When you see a Silver S…

BYJessica Evans

Dec 30, 2022

Jun 11, 2021

Our highest honor: Top medals from countries around the world

From simple stars to elaborate medallions, here are 12 of the world’s ultimate civilian awards in all of their splendor. This article originally appeared on Radio Free Europe/Radio L…

BYRadio Free Europe Radio Liberty

Jun 11, 2021

BYLogan Nye

Mar 8, 2021

These four men were authorized to wear medals with their own faces on them

Everyone knows the “I’m important!” feeling of getting their first medal and the “Oh, this dog and pony show again?” of getting pretty much every award after that. It was probably a little different for these guys when they got a me…

BYLogan Nye

Mar 8, 2021

Jan 20, 2021

This is the only Victoria Cross recipient to survive earning the second medal

The United Kingdom’s highest award for valor in combat, the Victoria Cross, is notoriously difficult to earn. It is awarded…

Jan 20, 2021

May 14, 2020

How Prince Charles got all his medals without fighting in a war

When decked out in his full royal regalia, the Prince of Wales looks much like what you think a 69-year-old aristocrat might — much like what you think a stereotypical soon-to-be king might. His military uniform is emblazoned with medals, ropes, p…

May 14, 2020

BYUnited States Army

Apr 29, 2020

Soldier running her 100th marathon in Boston

It all started when she was stationed in Virginia 12 years ago. That’s when Chief Warrant Officer 4 Beofra Butler saw everyone training for the Marine Corps Marathon and decided to give the 26.2 mile race a try. As a soldier, running was…

BYUnited States Army

Apr 29, 2020

Apr 29, 2020

The Space Medal of Honor is the highest award for astronauts

On Oct. 1, 1978, President Jimmy Carter wrapped the Space Medal of Honor around the neck of Neil Armstrong, the first human to set foot on the moon. It was the first-ever of such medals awarded, even though the medal was authorized by Congress in 19…

BYUS Department of Defense

Apr 29, 2020

BYMilitary.com

Sep 12, 2019

New audio released from failed B-1 bomber ejection

“Is that an actual emergency?” an air traffic controller at Midland Airport, Texas, asks an Air Force …

BYMilitary.com

Sep 12, 2019

Jan 28, 2019

The real ‘GI Joe’ is one of four living WWII Medal of Honor recipients

If you listen to Francis Currey describe his life, he’ll tell you he’s an average man. Never mind that he’s been featured on a U.S. postage stamp and was a model for one of the most famous dolls in history — G.I. Joe. Despite his pro…

BYUS Department of Defense

Jan 28, 2019

Jan 28, 2019

This purple medal proved everyone could be a patriot

Considered to be the first military award of the United States Armed Forces, the Badge of Military Merit is the official predecessor to the highly-respected, yet rarely-coveted Purple Heart. In 1782, General George Washington created

Jan 28, 2019

BYUS Navy

Apr 10, 2018

This Medal of Honor recipient was laid to rest after more than 60 years

A naval aviator who earned the Medal of Honor during the Korean War was laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, April 4, 2018. Family and friends of Capt. Thomas J. Hudner, Jr., as well as a number of servi…

BYUS Navy

Apr 10, 2018

Apr 4, 2018

5 reasons why the Volunteer Service Medal is the most ridiculous medal

The awards that decorate a troop’s dress uniform have meaning. If a troop does something extraordinary, there are plenty of awards they might earn, depending on the specific heroics. There are medals for more mundane actions, as well. If they serve…