"V" Device Image

"V" Device Description

The "V" device is a 1/4" device that is attached to certain decorations in the U.S. Armed Forces and represents heroism or valor in combat instead of meritorious service. Such situations as active engagement of an enemy force or other actions deemed heroic by the theater commander. All branches use the same V device, and since 2017, all share the same criteria across branches.This device is in a 3/16" size.It comes in Bronze, Silver, and Gold.

Associated Devices

Medal of Honor

In 2011, it was established that for each succeeding act that would otherwise justify award of the Medal of Honor, the individual receiving the subsequent award is authorized to wear an additional Medal of Honor ribbon and/or a V device on the Medal of Honor suspension ribbon. The V device is a 1/4-inch high bronze miniature letter V with serifs that denotes valor. The Medal of Honor was the only decoration authorized the use of the V device to designate subsequent awards in such fashion.

Legion of Merit

The sea services (i.e., the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard) may also authorize the Combat "V" for wear on the LOM, while the Army and Air Force do not authorize the "V" device.

Distinguished Flying Cross

The Army does not authorize the "V" Device to be worn on the DFC (even though the Army awards the DFC "for single acts of heroism" or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight; the other services can also award the DFC for extraordinary achievement).

Bronze Star Medal

The Bronze Star Medal with the "V" device to denote heroism is the fourth highest military decoration for valor. Although a service member may be cited for heroism in combat and be awarded more than one Bronze Star authorizing the "V" device, only one "V" may be worn on each suspension and service ribbon of the medal. Combat "V" – In the Navy and Marine Corps and Coast Guard, the "V" is worn to denote combat heroism or to recognize individuals who are "exposed to personal hazard during direct participation in combat operations”.

Air Medal

The United States Secretary of the Air Force approved the "V" Device for Air Medals awarded for heroism in combat effective 21 Oct 2004. This applies to all Air Force members (Active Duty, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard), retirees, and veterans. The "V" device is not authorized for wear on the medal for an earlier date.

Joint Service Commendation Medal

A "V" Device (for valorous actions in direct contact with an enemy) are authorised devices.

Army Commendation Medal

A "V" Device (for valorous actions in direct contact with an enemy) are authorised devices.

Air Force Commendation Medal

"V" device is for valorous actions in direct contact with an enemy and are authorised devices.

Army Achievement Medal

A “V” device is also authorised.

Air Force Achievement Medal

A “V” device is also authorised.

Air Force Organizational Excellence Award

The "V" device (discontinued January 1, 2014) was authorized to be worn for the units participating in combat operations and or direct combat support.