U.S. AIR MEDAL

Miniature Air Medal

A sixteen-pointed Bronze Stair with, in the centre, an eagle in flight; awarded to a pilot or a member of the crew of an aircraft who meets one of several requirements, but whose services do not warrant the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

It can be granted for: “performing a feat which is regarded as a meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.” This usually applies to personnel who have taken part in missions, which, although important, have not involved actual contact with the enemy.

Bomber crew can earn the medal by taking part in five combat missions each lasting more than 2 ½ hours, except on escort missions. The medal is also awarded to the pilot or member of a crew credited with the destruction of one enemy airplane.