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Prisoner of
War (POW) Medal |
| Service: |
ALL and Civilians |
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Authorization: |
DOD 1348-33-M |
| Instituted: |
1985 |
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Prisoner of
War
(POW) Medal |
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Description:
- Authorized by Section 1128, title 10,
U.S.C.
- Authorized for any person who, while serving
in any capacity with the U.S. Armed Forces, was taken prisoner and held captive
after April 5, 1917.
- Character of Service. Any person convicted by
a U.S. military tribunal of misconduct or a criminal charge or whose discharge
is less than honorable based on actions while a POW is ineligible for the
medal. The POWs whose conduct was not in accord with the Code of Conduct and
whose actions are documented by U.S. military records, are ineligible for the
medal. Resolution of questionable cases shall be the responsibility of the
Secretaries concerned.
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- Manner of Wearing. Section 1128 of title 10,
U. S.C., “Prisoner-of-war medal: issue,” establishing the POW Medal
specifies that it shall be displayed immediately following decorations awarded
for individual heroism, meritorious achievement, or meritorious service, and
before any other service medal, campaign medal, or service ribbon authorized to
be displayed. To ensure consistency among the Services, the POW Medal shall be
placed ahead of the Good Conduct Medal in the order of precedence.
- BACKGROUND
- Public Law 99-145, Department of Defense
Authorization Act, dated 8 November 1985, amended Chapter 57 of Title 10, USC,
1128, to require under certain circumstances the issuance of a Prisoner of War
Medal to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of
the United States, was taken prisoner and held captive after 5 April
1917.
- The symbolism of the design is as follows: The
eagle, a symbol of the United States and the American spirit, though surrounded
by barbed wire and bayonet points, stands with pride and dignity, continually
on the alert for the opportunity to seize hold of beloved freedom, thus
symbolizing the hope that upholds the spirit of the prisoner of war. The ribbon
colors red, white, and blue are symbolic of our National colors while
determination to survive in or to escape from a hostile
environment.
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