Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal

BACK DEVICE(s)

Description:

1. Authorized by the Secretary of the Air Force, April 1, 1964, as amended May 1, 1973.
2. Awarded for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity during a 4-year period while serving in an enlisted status in the U.S. Air Reserve Forces.
3. Does not credit service performed in the Reserve components of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard.
4. Subsequent awards shall be denoted by an oak-leaf cluster worn on the suspension and Service ribbon of the medal.

Background:

1. This award was originally established as a ribbon bar by the Secretary of the Air Force on April 1, 1964 and was amended on May 1, 1973 when the medal (pictured below) was created. It is awarded for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a four-year period while serving in an enlisted status in the U.S. Air Reserve Forces, (Air Force Reserve). This circular bronze medal was designed by the Institute of Heraldry.
2. In the center of the obverse is an American eagle, wings outstretched perched on a wide circle containing a five-pointed star with a disk in the center, (like the symbols on early U.S. Aircraft). Above the eagle and between its wing tips is a banner with the words, "Meritorious Service." Around the edge to the left are the words, "Air Reserve" and to the right, the word "Forces" with delta wing shapes on either side of the word. Behind this design are thirteen rays or lines from the center.
3. The reverse of the medal has a cloud design in the center and within this at the top are the wings and thunderbolts of the Air Force Coat of Arms. Below this is the word, "To," and encircling the outer edge of the medal is the inscription, "Exemplary Behavior--Efficiency--Fidelity."