The Bronze Star Medal is awarded military personnel for bravery and meritorious service. Not to be confused with the bronze service stars, which are worn on service awards and campaign medals?

(It can be awarded to all military personnel except for those serving in the Army. That practice ended in 2000.)

To be eligible to receive the medal, individuals must be actively receiving imminent danger or hostile fire pay, during the event for which the star is to be awarded.

The Bronze Star Medal was the brainchild of Colonel Russell P. Reeder, in 1943. He believed that this particular metal would raise the morale of those who received it. His original intent was that it would be a ‘ground equivalent' of the Air Medal.

It was artistically crafted by Rudold Freund, who also created the Silver Star. It is obviously made out of bronze and is one and a half inches in diameter. The backside of the metal bears the inscription ‘heroic or meritorious achievement'. It is also engraved with the recipient's name.

President Roosevelt authorized the Medal, in 1944. It was to be retroactive back to December 7^th, 1941. This authorization was amended in 1962, by President Kennedy, allowing those who served with friendly forces to be eligible for The Bronze Star Medal, as well.

The metal can be awarded with a Valor device, also known as a combat V, V-devise or combat distinguishing device. This means that the individual receive the award because of an act of valor, during direct enemy contact. It must be recommended by a superior and is not an automatic upgrade.

The Valor device can only be awarded once. It is not possible to receive the award multiple times, regardless of the number of heroic acts performed.

It gained somewhat unsavory public attention, in 1996. Admiral Jeremy Boorda committed suicide as a result of media reports stating that he had worn the Valor device, without the proper authority.

Military personnel, from all wars, have been awarded the Bronze Star Medal. Most recently are those who have served in Iraq.

If you are the recipient or family member of someone who was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, chances are you want to display it, in a place of prominence. One way to do so is to display the star in a wooden display case.

There are many of these to choose from, as they come in a variety of sizes and wood finishes. Typically, cherry and heirloom walnut are the two most common woods used. These are both excellent choices because they match almost every décor.

Many people choose to collect military badges, medals and insignia's. This is a great way to obtain many types of metals, even though they have never served in the military.

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