The Prestigious Five: Military Decorations Worn on the Right Chest
Military decorations and awards are bestowed upon service members to honor their valor, service, and achievements. While most military medals are worn on the left side of the chest, certain unique decorations are proudly displayed on the right. In this exploration of military honors, we delve into five distinguished awards that adorn the right chest of those who have served with distinction in the armed forces.
The Purple Heart
The Purple Heart is one of the most revered awards in the U.S. military. It’s awarded to service members who have been wounded or killed in action against an enemy of the United States. This medal, first established by General George Washington in 1782, was initially known as the Badge of Military Merit. The heart-shaped medal signifies the bond of brotherhood and the sacrifice made by those injured or killed in battle:
- It’s made of purple enamel, with a heart surrounded by gold.
- A gold-colored profile of Washington is on the front.
- The reverse has the recipient’s name, rank, and service.
💡 Note: The Purple Heart is unique in that it can be awarded multiple times, with each award indicated by a gold or silver oak leaf cluster or a second Purple Heart medal.
The Combat Action Ribbon
Introduced in the late 1960s for the Vietnam War, the Combat Action Ribbon (CAR) is awarded to members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard who engage the enemy in direct combat or provide support under fire. Unlike medals, the CAR is a ribbon, and its wearing on the right side signifies that the recipient has experienced firsthand the intensity of combat:
- The ribbon is primarily maroon with a white stripe in the center.
- Each subsequent award is denoted by a gold star.
💡 Note: While the CAR is typically worn on the right side, when accompanying medals, it’s positioned on the left, illustrating its hybrid nature between ribbons and medals.
The German Wehrmacht Long Service Awards
The German Wehrmacht during World War II issued several awards for long service, among which the Wehrmacht Long Service Award stands out. While not a universal practice, these awards could be seen on the right chest, especially for soldiers who completed over 4 years of service. Here’s a brief overview:
| Years of Service | Color of Medal |
|---|---|
| 4 Years | Black |
| 12 Years | Silver |
| 25 Years | Gold |
💡 Note: These awards highlighted the wearer’s commitment and length of service rather than specific acts of valor or engagement with the enemy.
The Air Force Combat Action Medal
Exclusive to members of the U.S. Air Force and Space Force, the Air Force Combat Action Medal (AFCAM) was established to recognize airmen who engage in active combat missions. It’s a relatively new award, being instituted in 2007:
- The medal’s design includes an eagle’s head with a laurel wreath.
- The phrase “Combat Action” is engraved on the reverse.
- It’s worn on the right side to differentiate from traditional medals.
The Silver Star Medal
While traditionally worn on the left chest, the Silver Star Medal, the third-highest military decoration for valor, has been known to appear on the right side in certain circumstances, particularly when multiple awards are bestowed:
- It’s a five-pointed silver star with a gold profile of Liberty in the center.
- It’s awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States.
💡 Note: When worn on the right, it often indicates the recipient’s desire to showcase their highest level of bravery or when space on the left side becomes limited due to numerous awards.
Final Thoughts: The wearing of military decorations on the right chest is not just a matter of placement but a profound expression of service, bravery, and sacrifice. These decorations are more than just symbols; they tell stories of courage under fire, years of dedication, and the ultimate sacrifices made in the line of duty. Each medal, badge, or ribbon worn on the right chest stands as a silent testament to the valor and contributions of those who have served, highlighting unique aspects of military service that go beyond traditional recognition.
Why are some military decorations worn on the right chest?
+
Certain military decorations are worn on the right chest to distinguish them from traditional awards, often signifying specific combat experiences, long service, or unique circumstances where the space on the left side is limited due to multiple awards.
Can any military decoration be worn on the right side?
+
No, only specific decorations are designated for the right side. These include the Purple Heart, the Combat Action Ribbon, certain long service awards, and occasionally medals like the Silver Star when appropriate due to space or tradition.
What does it signify when multiple Purple Hearts are worn on the right chest?
+
Multiple Purple Hearts indicate that the recipient was wounded in action more than once. Each subsequent award is marked by a gold or silver oak leaf cluster, with a second Purple Heart medal itself often signifying two or more wounds.
