Valor device - Definition

The Valor device, also known as V-device, "V" device, and Combat V, is an award of the United States military which is authorized by the military services as an attachment to certain awards and decorations. The Valor device denotes those individuals who were awarded a decoration as a result of direct combat with an enemy force. It may also denote accomplishment of a heroic nature or valorous acts in direct support of operations against an enemy force.

The first Valor devices were authorized in 1944 as an attachment to the Bronze Star Medal. Since then, the Valor device is authorized to medals which are awarded both for combat and non-combat actions. This is to distinguish those who were awarded a decoration through combat, compared to those who were awarded a medal for support roles or meritorious service.

An example of medals which are authorized the Valor device are the Commendation Medals, Achievement Medals, Air Medal, and certain unit awards. Awards which are commonly bestowed for valor, such as the Medal of Honor and Silver Star are never awarded with the Valor device since valor is indicated by the award itself.

The Valor device is awarded as a single, one-time decoration only. A service member may not receive several Valor devices on the same decoration.

Notable recipients

• Jeremy Michael Boorda
• Daniel Brandenstein
• Ray Davis
• Michael Hagee
• Joseph P. Hoar
• John Kerry
• Charles C. Krulak
• Tommy Franks
• Douglas MacArthur
• Richard Marcinko
• Chesty Puller
• Robert L. Stewart
• Strom Thurmond
• Elmo R. Zumwalt, Jr.