The Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration, features 13 stars on its distinctive light blue ribbon today.
Understanding the Stars on the Medal of Honor
The design of the Medal of Honor has evolved over time, but its contemporary appearance prominently displays a specific number of stars, each holding significant historical meaning.
Currently, all Medals of Honor are suspended from a light blue ribbon. This ribbon is adorned with 13 stars, which symbolically represent the nation's 13 original colonies. This element connects the modern medal directly to the foundational history of the United States.
Historically, earlier versions and components of the Medal of Honor featured different star counts. For instance, an older design element surrounding the insignia included 34 stars. These stars were representative of each state within the Union, as well as the Confederate states, reflecting a different historical context. However, for the current design, the focus remains on the 13 stars on the ribbon.
Key Details of the Medal's Design
To summarize the star counts associated with the Medal of Honor:
| Component | Number of Stars | Representation | Current? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current Ribbon | 13 | The nation's 13 original colonies | Yes |
| Historical Insignia Surround | 34 | Each state of the Union and Confederate states | No |
This iconic award is a testament to extraordinary valor and self-sacrifice, and its design elements, including the stars, are steeped in American history and symbolism. For more detailed information, resources like the official Defense.gov website provide comprehensive insights into the medal's history and significance.
