History
The Aerial Achievement Medal was established by the Secretary of the Air Force in 1988 and is awarded by the Department of the Air Force for sustained meritorious achievement while taking part in aerial flight. Unlike the Air Medal, which may be given for a single act, it recognises a period of flying achievement, with the qualifying criteria set by each major air command.
Where an Australian aircrew member has flown with United States air forces, they may receive the medal on the same footing as their American counterparts. As a foreign award it is worn in the Australian Order of Wearing where its acceptance and wear have been approved, after Australian honours.
Design & ribbon
The medal
The medal is a bronze medallion issued by the United States Air Force, with a reverse left for the recipient's details. Its distinguishing feature in a group is the ribbon.
The ribbon
Light blue with golden orange stripes and black edges.
The ribbon has a light blue centre flanked by golden orange stripes and black edges.
Eligibility
The medal is awarded for sustained meritorious achievement while taking part in aerial flight.
- It recognises a period of flying achievement rather than a single act, which distinguishes it from the Air Medal;
- The qualifying criteria are set by each major air command;
- It is awarded to United States Air Force personnel, and to allied aircrew who flew with United States air forces;
- As a foreign award it is worn in the Australian Order of Wearing after Australian and Commonwealth honours, where its acceptance and wear have been approved.
Order of wear
In the Australian Order of Wearing, foreign awards are worn after Australian honours and Commonwealth awards, in the order set for foreign awards. A foreign award is worn only where its acceptance and wear have been approved.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Aerial Achievement Medal?
A United States Air Force decoration established in 1988 for sustained meritorious achievement while taking part in aerial flight.
How is it different from the Air Medal?
The Air Medal may be awarded for a single act of merit or heroism; the Aerial Achievement Medal recognises a sustained period of flying achievement.
Who can receive it?
United States Air Force personnel, and allied aircrew who flew with United States air forces.
Who sets the criteria?
Each major air command sets its own qualifying criteria for the award.
What are the ribbon colours?
A light blue centre flanked by golden orange stripes and black edges.
How is it worn in Australia?
As a foreign award it is worn after Australian and Commonwealth honours, where its acceptance and wear have been approved.