Coast Guard Medal for Heroism

Awarded to any service member who, while serving in any capacity with the United States Coast Guard, distinguishes him or herself by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy. For the decoration to be awarded, an individual must have performed a voluntary act of heroism in the face of great personal danger or of such a magnitude that it stands out distinctly above normal expectations. The Coast Guard Medal was first authorized in 1949. Additional awards of the Coast Guard Medal are annotated by gold award stars.