How to Find Out What Medals a Veteran Was Awarded?
As a veteran’s family member, researcher, or historian, it’s often essential to know what medals a veteran was awarded during their military service. Medals and awards are a significant part of a veteran’s record, providing insight into their achievements, bravery, and sacrifices. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to find out what medals a veteran was awarded.
Step 1: Gather Information
Before starting your search, gather as much information as possible about the veteran. This includes:
- Full name
- Service branch (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Space Force)
- Dates of service
- Rank and unit information
- Any known awards or medals already received
Step 2: Check the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is a valuable resource for finding military records, including medals and awards. You can search for records through their online database, National Archives Catalog (https://catalog.archives.gov/).
- Search by Name: Enter the veteran’s full name in the search bar, and filter the results by "Military Records" and "Awards and Decorations."
- Search by Service Number: If you have the veteran’s service number, you can search for their records using this number.
- Search by Unit: If you know the veteran’s unit, you can search for records related to that unit.
Step 3: Check the Veteran’s Official Military Personnel File (OMPF)
The OMPF is a comprehensive file containing a veteran’s military service record. You can request the OMPF through the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) (https://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel).
- Request the OMPF: Fill out the SF 180 form (https://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel/standard-form-180) and send it to the NPRC.
- Wait for the Response: The NPRC will send you a response, which may include the veteran’s OMPF, including medals and awards.
Step 4: Check the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) also maintains records of veterans’ medals and awards. You can search for records through the VA’s eBenefits Portal (https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/).
- Search by Name: Enter the veteran’s full name in the search bar, and filter the results by "Awards and Decorations."
- Search by Service Number: If you have the veteran’s service number, you can search for their records using this number.
Step 5: Check with the Veteran’s Service Organization
Veteran’s service organizations, such as the American Legion (https://www.legion.org/), Veterans of Foreign Wars (https://www.vfw.org/), or Disabled American Veterans (https://www.dav.org/), may have records of medals and awards. Contact the organization directly to inquire about their records.
Step 6: Check with the Veteran’s Family Members
If the veteran is no longer living, you can also contact their family members to gather information about their medals and awards. Family members may have received medals or have knowledge of the awards the veteran received.
Table: Common Medals and Awards
| Medal/Award | Description |
|---|---|
| Purple Heart | Awarded for wounds received in action or for death as a result of an enemy’s action |
| Bronze Star | Awarded for bravery, achievement, or meritorious service |
| Silver Star | Awarded for gallantry in action |
| Medal of Honor | Awarded for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty |
| Combat Infantryman Badge | Awarded to infantrymen who have served in combat |
| Combat Action Badge | Awarded to non-infantry personnel who have served in combat |
Conclusion
Finding out what medals a veteran was awarded requires patience, persistence, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can gather information about the veteran’s medals and awards. Remember to check multiple sources, including the National Archives and Records Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the veteran’s service organization. With the right information, you can honor the veteran’s service and achievements.
