Web the army awards its commendation medal to its own soldiers or members of other branches serving with the army. Web a cash award, an honorary award, or both, but does not include a qsi or performance rating. First authorized in 1945, it recognizes service members who display meritorious service, accomplish an outstanding achievement, or distinguish themselves through acts of heroism. Web the army achievement medal (aam) is granted to personnel for outstanding achievement or meritorious service not of a nature that merits the commendation medal. Award authority rests with local commanders, granting a broad discretion of when and for what action the achievement medal may be awarded.
