Aerial Achievement Medal

The Aerial Achievement Medal is a relatively new addition to the pantheon of medals of America, and is awarded to Air Force personnel only. It was created in 1988 and is awarded in the name of the Secretary of the Air Force. These military medals are designed to recognize sustained meritorious achievement of aircrew members whose actions in flight might not qualify for the Air Medal. These Air Force military ribbons and medals are recommended by local commanders, but must be approved by a major Air Force Command.
The Aerial Achievement Medal is awarded to aircrew members for meritorious service over the course of 20 separate flights of at least 2 hours duration. These US military medals rank just below the Air Medal and just above the Commendation Medals in the general order of precedence that has been established for the proper display of all Air Force medals and ribbons. Subsequent awards are made with Oak Leaf Clusters.