In the wake of the September 11 attacks, the Department of Transportation created awards to honor civilians and military personnel who assisted in subsequent relief efforts. The Transportation 9-11 Medal was established in 2002 to honor civilians and military personnel who carried out heroic and courageous acts directly following the September 11 attacks.
The 9-11 Medal is a one time decoration and is authorized for wear by both civilians and members of the U.S military.
The medal features a tablet above a laurel wreath and below an arc of 9 stars and 11 rays. Inscriptions read “DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION,” “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and “NE OBLIVISCARIS,” meaning “Never forget.” The ribbon is is divided into equal thirds of red, white, and blue from right to left.