Aerial Achievement Medal

Awarded, in the name of the Secretary of the Air Force, to members of the United States military or civilian personnel, while serving in a capacity with the U.S. Air Force, who distinguish themselves by sustained meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. The achievements must be accomplished with distinction above and beyond that normally expected of professional airmen and recognizes the contributions of aircrew members who would otherwise not be eligible for award of the Air Medal.

In accordance with Department of the Air Force Instruction 36-2803, the Air Force authorizes the award of the Aerial Achievement Medal to Civil Air Patrol personnel when engaged in official Air Force Auxiliary missions. While there are cases of CAP members being awarded the Aerial Achievement Medal for their CAP service, such presentations are extremely rare.