The Silver Star Medal (SSM) is the United States Armed Forces' third-highest military decoration for valor in combat. The Silver Star Medal is awarded primarily to members of the United States Armed Forces for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States.
Army Captain Gregory Ambrosia receiving the Silver Star from Navy Admiral Michael Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Army Specialist Monica Lin Brown receives the Silver Star from then-Vice President Dick Cheney, 2008
Awards and decorations of the United States Armed Forces
The awards and decorations of the United States Armed Forces include various medals, service ribbons, ribbon devices, and specific badges which recognize military service and personal accomplishments of members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Such awards are a means to outwardly display the highlights of a service member's career.
Service ribbons, ribbon devices, and badge awards displayed on a Command Master Chief Petty Officer's service uniform.