Valor in Service refers to acts of heroism, gallantry, or exceptional courage performed by military service members during direct engagement in combat at a (high) personal risk.Typically, this is recognized through awards such as the Silver Star, Distinguished Service Cross (Army), Navy Cross or Air Force Cross, all of which require gallantry in action against an enemy in direct engagement / combat at (high) personal risk. For situations where exemplary Valor has been demonstrated, the Congressional Medal of Honor may be awarded in lieu of the service awards or, in cases where a comprehensive review has occurred after awarding one of the service awards, that award may be upgraded to the Medal of Honor. The core values associated with service in the military include Honor, Duty, Loyalty, Integrity, Respect for oneself and others, Selflessness, and of course Personal Courage. These are the minimum standards for which we hold the men and women of the Armed Forces accountable. Valor in service not only encompasses the physical aspects of one's actions, but the action must also have an element of selflessness, personal integrity, and/or extraordinary courage in the face of danger. Service members who embody these values in combat or other high-risk situations are often recognized with valor awards. This publication includes a selection of stories about several individuals who exemplify Valor. Some of them may be known to you while others may have been lost to history, while other may be that person you see every day or who you may walk past in the store never knowing their heroic role in American military history. The stories are chronological order based on the event where the subject's Valor occurred although some of their stories may span decades. Enjoy.
