Prisoner of War Medal
Prisoner of War Medal
DESCRIPTION
The Prisoner of War (POW) Medal is awarded to any service member who has been taken prisoner of war while engaged in combat operations against an opposing force. This award is unique because it is granted solely for the fact of being captured and detained; it is not awarded for heroism or achievement. In CSG-12, this medal recognizes the personal sacrifice and endurance of personnel who have been captured and detained by enemy forces, reinforcing the unit's commitment to honor and remember all personnel who suffer this fate.
HISTORY
The Prisoner of War Medal was authorized by an Act of Congress in December 1985. It is awarded to any service member who was a prisoner of war after April 5, 1917, while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. It ranks immediately after the Navy "E" Ribbon and before all Campaign and Service Medals. It is a highly symbolic award that recognizes the suffering and sacrifice endured by the recipient during their period of detention.
PREREQUISITES
Taken Prisoner
The recipient must have been taken and held prisoner by a hostile, opposing enemy force during a unit operation.
Hostile Action
The capture must occur during a combat operation or as a direct result of hostile action against the United States.
Verifiable Detention
The period of detention and subsequent release/recovery must be verifiable through After Action Reports (AARs) or intelligence logs.
CO Certification
Requires detailed AAR verification of the circumstances of capture and final approval from the Commanding Officer (O-6).