This decoration, established by the Secretary of the Air Force on 3 February 1988, is awarded by the Department of the Air Force to U.S. military and civilian personnel. It is awarded for sustained meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. The achievements must be accomplished with distinction above and beyond that normally expected of professional airmen. Approval or disapproval authority is delegated to wing commanders for military and Secretary of the Air Force for civilians. MAJCOMs will identify the missions and positions that qualify for this award. HQ USAF/XO must certify MAJCOM criteria.

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