Aug. 3, 2010 Silver Star Medal BACKGROUNDThe Silver Star Medal had its beginning during World War I. An Act of Congress of July 9, 1918, authorized the wearing by Army personnel of a small silver star, 3/16 of an inch in diameter, upon the service ribbon of a campaign medal, to indicate a citation for gallantry in action,
Aug. 5, 2010 Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon BACKGROUNDThis ribbon was authorized by the Secretary of the Air Force on Aug. 28, 1962. It is awarded to all Air Force service members who, after Jan. 1, 1963, qualify as "expert" in small-arms marksmanship with either the M-16 rifle or issue handgun. CRITERIAQualify as expert in small-arms
Aug. 5, 2010 Southwest Asia Service Medal BACKGROUNDThis award, authorized by Executive Order 12754, March 12, 1991, is awarded to members of the U.S. armed forces who served in support of Operations Desert Shield or Desert Storm between Aug. 2, 1990 and Nov. 30, 1995 in one or more of the following areas: Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of