DoD to Improve Awards Process

The Pentagon has made a number of changes to the military decorations and awards program to ensure servicemembers receive appropriate recognition of their actions. Key changes include: (1) implementation of new goals and processes to improve timeliness of the Medal of Honor and other valor awards; (2) standardization of the meaning and use of the Combat Distinguishing Device ("V" device) as a valor-only device; (3) creation of a new combat device ("C") when the award related to the most arduous combat conditions; (4) introduction of a "remote impacts" device ("R") when recipients used remote technology to directly impact combat operations; and (5) adoption of a common definition of Meritorious Service Under Combat Conditions.