Airlift Device - Definition and Overview

Occupation Ribbon with Airlift Device

The Airlift Device is a decoration of the United States military which is presented as an attachment to both the Army of Occupation Medal and the Navy Occupation Service Medal. It is awarded to those service members who performed duty in direct support of the Berlin Airlift between 1948 and 1949.

To be awarded the Airlift Device, a service member must have performed occupation service in Germany between June 26, 1948 and September 30, 1949. Such service must have also been performed in direct support of the Berlin Airlift for a period of ninety or more consecutive days.

The Airlift Device appears as a gold C-54 aircraft pin, centered of the ribbon for the Army of Occupation Medal and the Navy Occupation Service Medal. When worn on the full sized medal, the Airlift Device is pinned beneath all campaign clasps.

Those qualifying for the Airlift Device may also be entitled to the Medal for Humane Action, depending on the total days of duty performed in support of the Berlin Airlift.

See also: Awards and decorations of the United States military