The Defense Department has authorized the creation of a new medal, intended to honor special and direct contributions to battlefield actions made by individuals who may not be physically present on the combat grounds when the fighting is taking place. Service members who orchestrate cyber attacks on specific targets, move troops into position, or operate unmanned vehicles may qualify for the new Distinguished Warfare Medal. The award will assume precedence directly below the Distinguished Flying Cross, and will be presented only for "a single incident," according to a Pentagon spokesman. The new medal’s status has drawn criticism from some veterans and service members, because it is higher than the Bronze Star and Purple Heart medals. Service members and veterans who have served as far back as the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, could qualify. The secretaries of each service branch will determine how persons who earned the award will be recognized.
