National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership’s Post

There are three different variations of the Congressional Medal of Honor. Each medal symbolizes the values of Courage, Integrity, Commitment, Sacrifice, Citizenship, and Patriotism. Today, we highlight the special features that make up the Air Force National Medal of Honor. Coat of Arms: The lighting bolts at the top of the medal are borrowed from the Air Force Coat of Arms. Oak Clusters: Dark green oak clusters located in each of the star's five points represent strength. Laurel Wreath: The wreath of laurel leaves, a symbol of victory, was carried over from the Army's Medal of Honor design. 34 Stars: The 34 stars encircling the insignia are equal to the number of stars on the US flag in 1862. Each star represents a state, from both Union and Confederate states. Lady Liberty: The Statue of Liberty is centered in the Air Force Design. In addition to standing for Liberty, she is derived from the imagery of Queen Semiramis of Babylon who was famed for her beauty, strength and wisdom.

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