Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award

BACK DEVICE(s)

Description:

1. Authorized by the Secretary of the Air Force, January 6, 1954.
2. On 16 November 2020, the Secretary of the Air Force approved the renaming of the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award to the Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award.
3. Awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to units that have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. The service or achievement maybe in the following:
   • Performance of exceptionally meritorious service of national or international significance.
   • Accomplishment of a specific outstanding achievement of national or international significance.
   • Combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States.
   • Military operations involving conflict with or exposure to hostile actions by an opposing foreign force.
4. Certain devices, depending on the circumstances, may be worn on the service ribbon:
   • Oak-Leaf Cluster. A bronze oak-leaf cluster for subsequent awards when authorized.
   • “V” Device. A bronze “V” device when the award of the Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award is made to a unit for combat or direct combat support.

Background:

1. As per Air Force Manual 36-2806 dtd 27 October 2022 w Ch 4 paragraph A16.16.3.2 - Effective 1 January 2014, the “V” device is no longer authorized for award with an Air Force unit award.