Honoring Service Beyond Duty: The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal

In the pantheon of military decorations, the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM) holds a distinct place, recognizing not acts of valor in battle but rather the selfless commitment to service and community outside the scope of regular duty. This prestigious award symbolizes the military's deep-rooted ethos of service to others, extending beyond the battlefield into the fabric of society.

Origin and Background

Established by Executive Order 12830 on January 9, 1993, by President George H.W. Bush, the MOVSM was born out of the recognition that military personnel often engage in significant volunteer service within their communities. The medal was designed to honor those who go above and beyond in their efforts to make a positive impact outside their regular duties.

Criteria for Award

The MOVSM is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including active duty, Reserve, and National Guard, who perform substantial volunteer service to the local community that reflects positively on the military as a whole. Unlike other military decorations, the MOVSM does not require a specific act of heroism or bravery but rather a sustained and impactful contribution to the community.

Design and Symbolism

The medal itself features a gold-colored border with a deep blue field in the center, adorned with a sprig of laurel leaves. At the top, the inscription "OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE" is emblazoned, while the reverse side bears the eagle from the Department of Defense seal. The ribbon is predominantly blue, with thin gold stripes on either side and a central gold stripe flanked by thinner white stripes.

Notable Recipients

1. Captain Samantha Hernandez: Recognized for her extensive volunteer work in providing medical aid to underserved communities during overseas deployments.
2. Master Sergeant David Nguyen: Honored for his tireless efforts in organizing disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs in his hometown.
3. Petty Officer Sarah Thompson: Awarded for her dedication to mentoring at-risk youth and organizing educational programs in partnership with local schools.

Impact and Recognition

Receiving the MOVSM is not only a personal honor but also a testament to the military's commitment to service beyond the call of duty. It highlights the importance of community engagement and the positive role that service members play as ambassadors of goodwill both at home and abroad. Additionally, the MOVSM serves as a source of pride and motivation for recipients, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference in their communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal stands as a powerful symbol of the military's dedication to service and its integral role in fostering positive change beyond the battlefield. Through the recognition of exemplary volunteer efforts, the MOVSM honors the values of selflessness, compassion, and civic engagement that are fundamental to the armed forces and to society as a whole.

The Silver Star Medal: Honoring Heroism and Valor

The Silver Star Medal, one of the highest military decorations in the United States, holds a storied history of recognizing extraordinary acts of bravery and valor. Throughout its existence, the medal has symbolized the selfless sacrifice of service members who have demonstrated exceptional courage in the face of danger. In this article, we delve into the origin, history, and development of the prestigious Silver Star Medal, as well as provide six examples of service members who received this esteemed honor.

Origin and History:

The Silver Star Medal traces its origins back to World War I. Originally established as the Citation Star on July 19, 1918, it served as an award to commend individuals for gallantry in action. Later, on February 22, 1932, the medal's name was changed to the Silver Star, and its criteria were expanded to include not only acts of gallantry but also instances of valor and heroism.

Development and Criteria:

Over the years, the Silver Star's criteria have evolved to recognize different levels of heroic actions and extraordinary service. The medal is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces for acts of valor during combat operations against enemy forces. It may also be awarded to individuals who distinguish themselves through outstanding achievements in non-combat situations, involving exposure to great personal risk.

Examples of Honored Service Members:

1. Audie Murphy: The most decorated soldier in World War II, Audie Murphy received the Silver Star for his actions in Holtzwihr, France. Despite being outnumbered, he single-handedly held off a German infantry company, inflicting heavy casualties and allowing his unit to regroup and counterattack.

2. Douglas MacArthur: General Douglas MacArthur was awarded the Silver Star for his leadership and bravery during World War II. He organized a successful defense of the Philippines against the Japanese invasion, earning him this prestigious honor.

3. Mary Edwards Walker: Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, a pioneering female surgeon, was the only woman to receive the Silver Star during the Civil War. She risked her life to provide medical care to wounded soldiers on the battlefield and was recognized for her unwavering dedication.

4. Roy P. Benavidez: Green Beret Roy P. Benavidez was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for his actions in Vietnam. Despite being severely wounded, he saved the lives of eight fellow soldiers during a harrowing six-hour battle against overwhelming enemy forces.

5. Lori Piestewa: The first Native American woman to die in combat, Private First Class Lori Piestewa was awarded the Silver Star for her bravery in Iraq. She sacrificed her life to protect her comrades during an ambush in Nasiriyah.

6. Michael A. Monsoor: Petty Officer Second Class Michael A. Monsoor was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for his heroism in Iraq. He sacrificed himself by smothering a grenade with his body to save the lives of nearby teammates.

Conclusion:

The Silver Star Medal stands as a testament to the courage, valor, and selflessness displayed by service members throughout history. It serves as a tribute to those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, often at great personal risk, to protect their fellow soldiers and uphold the values of the United States. As the Silver Star continues to be awarded for exceptional acts of heroism, it reminds us of the unwavering commitment and sacrifice made by those who wear the uniform in service to their country.

Pentagon Kicks Off Appreciation Month with Concert

By Carmen L. Gleason
American Forces Press Service

May 4, 2007 – There aren't enough "thank yous" in the world to express the gratitude felt for the members of the armed forces, said up-and-coming vocalist Jenny Boyle, the entertainer for the Pentagon's kick off to Military Appreciation Month today. During the third annual America Supports You Military Appreciation Concert, Boyle entertained the audience with her rock and country stylings of crowd favorites, as the Pentagon Channel broadcast the hour-long concert live to 350 military installations worldwide.

America Supports You is a Defense Department program designed to connect grassroots support groups and corporate partners with the men and women of the U.S. armed forces and their families.

"(Jenny) is a real hero in my mind because she has gone everywhere we have people in uniform around the world, whether she had to wear a flak vest or not, to provide a taste of home to those folks that are away from their families and friends fighting for our freedom and our way of life," Navy Vice Admiral Nancy Brown, Joint Staff director of command, control, communications and computer systems, said during her opening remarks. "She has sacrificed on her own to do that."

Boyle has entertained troops at U.S. military installations during five tours with Armed Forces Entertainment and the United Service Organizations. She has performed in locations such as Germany, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Djibouti and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to name a few.

"(The men and women of the armed forces) have done so much for our country and they sacrifice so much on a daily basis," Boyle said. "It's the least that we can do to go overseas to entertain and support them. It's an honor."

For soldiers like Army Maj. Chew Leung, who works in the Army's personnel office, the concert briefly enjoyed during his lunch break had special meaning.

"I grew up during a time when the military was mostly disregarded," he said, referring to Vietnam-era days. "It's nice to have a performer come out and express her support for what we are doing. I really appreciate this."

Boyle said troops who are far away from friends and families especially appreciate her performances. "(Bringing) just a little bit of home to them means so much," she told American Forces Press Service. "And to be a part of that and being a part of America Supports You is such an honor."

"Have a great Military Appreciation Month," she said at the close of the concert. "You deserve every second of it!"

Article sponsored by Criminal Justice online leadership as well as police and military personnel who have authored books.

Armed Forces Recruits Take Oath of Enlistment at Florida Ceremony

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

May 4, 2007 – Scores of young people raised their right hands and joined America's armed forces during a joint enlistment ceremony here yesterday. The mass enlistment, held inside a hangar at Miami's Opa Locka Airport, inducted 120 new members into the Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy or Coast Guard.

Thomas F. Hall, assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs and a retired Navy rear admiral with 38 years of military service, attended the ceremony and praised the young people for their patriotism.

"I wish I could do it all over again," Hall said to the soon-to-be servicemembers. "But, it's your time to serve. And, you'll soon raise your hand and enter into the ranks of all of those that have served before you and will serve after you."

"I tip my hat to them for the service that they're going to provide to their country," Navy Vice Adm. Marty Chanik, commander of the U.S. 2nd Fleet, based at Norfolk, Va., told the inductees. "I really and deeply appreciate that, and I know that you'll find your service in the military to be a rewarding time. Congratulations to each and every one of you."

Air National Guard Lt. Gen. Craig R. McKinley, director of the Air National Guard, then swore in the group.

"It is such an honor to be wearing that uniform and to be a Marine," Miami Gardens resident Angeline Medina, 17, said after she took her oath of enlistment.

The swearing-in ceremony was part of Fleet Week USA and 2007 McDonald's Air and Sea Show media day activities held in the Fort Lauderdale and Miami region as part of National Military Appreciation Month in May.

The Navy sent some ships and its Leap Frogs Parachute Team to participate in Fleet Week and Air and Sea Show activities in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area, noted Chanik, who's also the director of the "Combined Joint Operations from the Sea Center of Excellence," in Norfolk.

"We bring some equipment for folks to see, but that's not really what's important," Chanik said.

The key focus of such events, the admiral pointed out, is for civilians to meet and talk with servicemembers "who make a big difference for our country."

One of those servicemembers was Army Staff Sgt. Daniel P. Barnes, a 29-year-old Iraq veteran who hails from Saint Robert, Mo. Barnes lost both of his legs because of a rocket-propelled-grenade attack in Baghdad on September 4, 2006. He praised the "Wounded Warrior Project," a non-profit servicemember support group that helped him when he was recovering from his wounds at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio.

"They came to my room and brought me a backpack filled with clothes and toiletries," Barnes, who is still on active duty, recalled. "I think it is truly amazing; fellow soldiers helping out fellow soldiers."

The Wounded Warrior Project is among the more than 250 businesses and organizations nationwide participating in the Defense Department's America Supports You program, which recognizes citizens' support for military men and women and communicates that support to members of the U.S. armed forces here and abroad.

The media day was a preview of military-themed festivities along Fort Lauderdale's beachfront today. Other venues at the airport included a drill-and-ceremony demonstration by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard, flyovers by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, and static military displays, including Navy F-16 and Air Force F-15 aircraft.

A special surprise guest, the new F-22 Raptor fighter jet, landed on the tarmac. Excited spectators cheered their approval as the sleek aircraft slowly taxied up with its turbines whining.

Article sponsored by Criminal Justice online leadership as well as police and military personnel who have authored books.

Anchorage Community Pays Tribute to Military

By Linda D. Kozaryn
American Forces Press Service

Feb. 24, 2007 – Anchorage 's community spirit was in fine form last night as about 1,000 people came out in evening dress and black tie to pay tribute to the men and women of the U.S. armed forces. Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens introduced the military's top ranking officer as the event's guest speaker. Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his wife Lynne, traveled from Washington , D.C., for the 30th Annual Salute to the Military hosted by the Armed Services WMCA of Alaska.

The gala's guest list included all of the city's movers and shakers - the mayor, former and retired military members, veteran's organizations, a host of corporation presidents and business leaders as well as legislators, senators, representatives and assembly members.

Anchorage City Manager Denis C. LeBlanc said the 275,000 people who make up the community "embrace the military."

"This is the biggest gathering I've seen in my ten years here," he told American Forces Press Service. "If you are anyone here in Alaska, particularly in Anchorage, you are here tonight."

LeBlanc said the military is a significant part of the Anchorage family. About 15,000 troops and family members are stationed "on the city's doorstep," he said, on Elmendorf AFB, Fort Richardson and Kulis Air National Guard Base.

Driving out of one of Elmendorf AFB's gates, for example, a sign indicates it's only 1.5 miles to downtown Anchorage. The close physical proximity, LeBlanc said, promotes community spirit and close ties between military leaders and state and city leaders.

"Having lived in other cities, there was a separation between the community and the military base. Here it's the next street," LeBlanc said. "There is no differentiation between them and us. That's why I think a lot of the military that come to Alaska retire here because they feel so accepted, so embraced by the community that they just want to be part of it."

Although there were many mid-level and senior officers among the chattering guests, the packed gala wasn't only for the high ranking. About 130 or so enlisted service members from every branch of the active duty, Reserve and National Guard also decked out for the gala. They were special guests of the Armed Services YMCA and the Anchorage Community.

"The Armed Services YMCA is a treasure of the community," LeBlanc said. "They reach out to these young people and they try to provide whatever they need. We know they're away from home. We know they're stressed - but they're all smiling, because they know they're in Anchorage, Alaska ."

As the gala got underway, the emcee recognized an outstanding member from each of the services as well as every service member who carried the colors and the service flags into the room. Guests were invited to stand, hoot and holler when the Air Force Band of the Pacific - Alaska Brass played each service song.

When the chairman took the podium to give his keynote address, he said he'd come a long way to say two simple words - thank you -- to anyone who would listen.

"To the men and women in this room tonight who wear the cloth of our armed forces, thank you for who you are and what you do," he said.

Pace said it is an incredible honor for him to represent the 2.4 men and women of the active duty military, National Guard and Reserves who have each solemnly sworn to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic.

"I'm here to tell you and to remind all of us, that the families of the service men and women serve this country as well as anyone who has ever worn the uniform," the chairman said, drawing applause.

Pace also acknowledged the veterans in the room, which included several World War II veterans. "To all who have served before, thank you, not only for your service, but for the legacy you have given us. You have shown us how to properly serve this nation," Pace said.

"It's an interesting fact that in combat, it is not that our servicemen and women do not know fear. We certainly do," Pace said. "There have been times that I could have crawled up inside my helmet and waited for my Mother to call me home.

"What overrides the fear of physical harm," he said, "is the fear that those of us who now have the honor of serving this nation, would let down those who went before us. Or, that we would somehow let down the soldier, Marine, airman, sailor or coast guardsman on our left or our right.

"It is the fear of not performing to the standard set by our veterans that spurs us on to serve this nation the way we do. So you veterans in this room tonight, thank you, for not only defending this nation during your time in uniform, but in showing us how to do it properly for the decades to come."

The chairman then turned to thank the Anchorage community for their "incredible outpouring of support and love."

"What a delight it has been to be here with you," he said. "This community, this state, your contributions to the security of our nation, this gathering tonight where you are showing those of us in uniform how much you appreciate us, it makes a difference. Thank you for your support."

During the gala, the Anchorage community recognized the following outstanding servicemembers:

- Army NCO of the Year Sgt. Shanna D. Foremny, 164th Military Police Company, Fort Richardson, Alaska

- Alaskan Reserve Soldier of the Year Sgt. Anthony E. Rivas, 1102d Garrison Support Unit, Ft. Richardson, Alaska

- Active Duty Marine of the Year Lance Cpl. Timothy M. Huebscher, Company D, Anti-Terrorism Battalion, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska

-Alaskan Reserve Marine of the Year Cpl. Travis C. Kauffman, Company D, Anti-Terrorism Battalion, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska

- Alaska Sailor of the Year Petty Officer 1st Class Robert D. Evans, Alaskan Command, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska

- Naval Reservist of the Year Master at Arms Petty Officer First Class Victor O. DeMoss, Naval Magazine Indian Island Det. C, Fort Richardson , Alaska

- Elmendorf Airman of the Year Staff Sgt. Jaclyn Rutan, 3rd Communications Squadron, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska

- Air Force Reservist of the Year Tech. Sgt. Jerry A. Hedstrom, 804th Civil Engineer Squadron, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska

- Alaska Coast Guard of the Year Food Specialist 1st Class Andrea L. Bisignani, USCG SAR, Kodiak , Alaska

- Alaskan Reserve Person of the Year Port Security Specialist 1st Class Michael W. McClure, U.S. Coast Guard Sector, Juneau, Alaska

- Alaska Air National Guard Airman of the Year Senior Airman Daniel r. Krueger, 176th Maintenance Squadron, Kulis Air Guard Base, Alaska

- Alaska Army National Guard Soldier of the Year Spc. Brian V. Norris, 1st Battalion, 297th Infantry, Fort Richardson , Alaska

Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.