DoD Begins Review of Military Awards

The Department of Defense has begun a comprehensive review of military awards and decorations in order to ensure policies are consistent with the evolving nature of warfare. This comprehensive review will lead to a revision of Department of Defense Instruction 1348.33-M, the Manual of Military Decorations and Awards. A working group of representatives from each Service, the Joint Staff and the Institute of Heraldry will form the core of the review effort. To be reviewed as a minimum: clarity and processes of honor and valor awards; disparate qualification criteria among the services for “V” devices and Purple Heart medals; definition of the theater of operations for expeditionary medals; and recognition of multiple tours in connection with Iraqi and Afghanistan campaign medals.