Honoring Extraordinary Heroism: The Service Cross Medals

 

The 94th Aero Squadron received the first 

Distinguished Service Crosses during WWI.

Reminder: I have a special giveaway for Military Appreciation Month at this link.

Aloha! I received this press release from the USPS ...

The Honoring Extraordinary Heroism: The Service Cross Medals Forever Stamps will be dedicated at 11 a.m. ET May 30 at the world’s largest stamp show that only takes place in the U.S. once a decade, World Stamp Show NY-2016. More than 250,000 visitors are expected to attend the show that runs May 28-June 4 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

Many recipients of these awards died or were severely wounded as a result of the valorous actions for which they were honored, while a number of others died in subsequent battles before receiving the award for their earlier actions. Many recipients rescued wounded service members or drew enemy fire to buy time for others to regroup or be rescued. Some continued fighting despite their own wounds. According to official accounts, all braved enemy fire, made bold decisions and took selfless actions to rescue or protect their fellow service members. These medals pay homage to such valorous actions and dedication to duty.

The Distinguished Service Cross was the first of these decorations to be established, in 1918, followed the next year by the Navy Cross. The Air Force Cross was instituted in 1960, following the creation of the Air Force as a separate military service independent from the Army. The Coast Guard Cross was only recently instituted, in 2010, to recognize its members for qualifying actions taken when not operating under the Department of the Navy or during military operations against international terrorists. This decoration is yet to be awarded.

The Service Cross Medals are the second highest military decoration for valor in combat, after the Medal of Honor. In the official language authorized by congressional legislation, the Service Cross Medals are given for extraordinary heroism not justifying the award of a Medal of Honor while:

· engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States;
· engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
· serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.

The Postal Service previously issued Medal of Honor Forever Stamps honoring recipients who served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Mahalo to the United States Post Office for honoring our military heroes. Do you have a favorite commemorative stamp? I always enjoy the holiday stamps.

One randomly selected commenter wins a book choice from my convention stash. Comments are open through Saturday, June 4, 10 pm in Baltimore. I'll post the winner on Sunday, June 5.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City