173rd Airborne Brigade
Tactical Realism Unit
MEDALS & AWARDS
The following is a comprehensive list of medals and awards. These honors ranged from high-level gallantry awards like the Vietnam Service Medal to service badges for specialized combat roles
Distinguished Service Cross
Description
The Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) is the U.S. Army's second-highest military decoration for extraordinary heroism in combat against an armed enemy, ranking just below the Medal of Honor. Established in 1918, it recognizes valorous actions in high-risk,,2,3 active combat, including those involving U.S. forces.
Silver Star
Description
The Silver Star is the U.S. Army's third-highest combat decoration for valor, awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States. Authorized in 1918 and established in 1932, it recognizes exceptional bravery that does not warrant a Medal of Honor or Distinguished Service Cross.
Distinguished Flying Cross
Description
The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) is a high-level U.S. military decoration awarded to Army personnel for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. Authorized in 1926, it requires actions above and beyond the call of duty, not merely routine missions. It ranks below the Legion of Merit.
Soldier's Medal
Description
he Soldier's Medal is the U.S. Army's highest honor for non-combat heroism, awarded to personnel who distinguish themselves by risking their own life to save another, outside of conflict with an enemy. Established in 1926, it recognizes voluntary risk of life under dangerous conditions, such as fires or vehicle rescues, with a, requirements similar to the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Bronze Star
Description
The Bronze Star Medal is a prestigious United States Armed Forces decoration awarded for bravery, acts of merit, or meritorious service in combat. Instituted in 1944, it is the fourth-highest combat award and ninth overall in precedence, honoring heroic achievement in ground combat, excluding aerial flight.
Purple Heart
Description
The Purple Heart is the oldest U.S. military decoration still in use, awarded to service members wounded or killed in combat against an enemy, or as a result of international terrorist attacks or peacekeeping missions. Established by George Washington in 1782 as the "Badge of Military Merit," it is a solemn award representing sacrifice.
Air Medal
Description
The Air Medal is a military decoration of the United States Armed Forces. It was created in 1942 and is awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.
Army Commendation Medal
Description
The Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) is a U.S. Army decoration awarded for heroism, meritorious achievement, or meritorious service, typically for junior officers and enlisted personnel, recognizing actions not warranting higher awards like the Bronze Star Medal. Established in 1945, it can be awarded with a "V" device for valor in combat, an "R" device for remote work, or a "C" device for combat environment service, with additional awards shown by oak leaf clusters
Good Conduct Medal
Description
The Army Good Conduct Medal (AGCM) recognizes enlisted soldiers for exemplary service, typically requiring three continuous years of honorable service with excellent conduct, efficiency, and fidelity