New York National Guard Medal of Valor Ribbon
New York National Guard Medal of Valor Ribbon
History
The New York National Guard Medal of Valor Ribbon honors New York National Guard members who perform exceptional acts of bravery or heroism in excess of the normal standards for duty and typically involving the risk of life.
Comprised of the New York Army National Guard and New York Air National Guard, the New York National Guard dates back to 1786 with the establishment of a militia following the British occupation of New York City. The New York Army National Guard was officially formed in 1906, and the Air Guard followed in 1917. The Army component numbers over 10,000 guardsmen, and the New York Air National Guard is the largest state Air Guard in the country at nearly 6,000.
Details
The medal is silver and in the shape of a five-pointed star; each ray features three points decorated with weaponry. In the center of the star appears the image of an eagle atop a shield. An inscription reads “FOR VALOR NY,” and the medal is joined to the ribbon by a laurel wreath with a scroll that reads “EXCELSIOR.” The ribbon is dark blue with no additional decoration.
Additional awards may be indicated by the New York State Shield device in silver.
Precedence
New York National Guard Medal of Valor Ribbon