A decoration is an award given to an individual as a distinctively designed mark of honor denoting heroism or meritorious or outstanding service or achievement.
U.S. military decorations authorized for wear on Army uniforms are listed below in order of precedence.
(1) Medal of Honor (Army, Navy, and Air Force).
(2) Distinguished Service Cross.
(3) Navy Cross.
(4) Air Force Cross.
(5) Coast Guard Cross.
(6) Defense Distinguished Service Medal.
(7) Distinguished Service Medal (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard).
(8) Silver Star.
(9) Defense Superior Service Medal.
(10) Legion of Merit.
(11) Distinguished Flying Cross.
(12) Soldier’s Medal.
(13) Navy and Marine Corps Medal.
(14) Airman’s Medal.
(15) Coast Guard Medal.
(16) Bronze Star Medal.
(17) Purple Heart.
(18) Defense Meritorious Service Medal.
(19) Meritorious Service Medal.
(20) Air Medal.
(21) Aerial Achievement Medal.
(22) Joint Service Commendation Medal.
(23) Army Commendation Medal.
(24) Navy Commendation Medal.
(25) Air Force Commendation Medal.
(26) Coast Guard Commendation Medal.
(27) Joint Service Achievement Medal.
(28) Army Achievement Medal.
(29) Navy Achievement Medal.
(30) Air Force Achievement Medal.
(31) Coast Guard Achievement Medal.
(32) Combat Action Ribbon (Navy and Marine Corps and Coast Guard).
(33) Air Force Combat Action Medal.