Expert: Jason Grabill - 5/10/2004

Question
Jason,
Thank you for excellent answer.
I assume "Arcom" is the larger pentagram medal?  Yes it is a pentagram.  There is no V on it anywhere. The eagle has a shield. There is no V on any of the 3 medals--or whatever the other 2 are called.  I understand then, that this is an "Army Commendation medal for Meritorious Service".  If I misunderstand, please correct.
What is the rectangular medal or pin?  What is it for?
The round pin is the same as the others.  It is just green with 5 white narrow stripes and nothing more.  What is it for?

Thank you,

Wes
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Followup To
Question -
Realize you aren't airborne expert.  Can you still help identify this medal from vietnam 101st airborne paratrooper.
cloth part of Medal is green with 5 narrow white verticle stripes. Medal has spread eagle with 3 arrows in talons.
Also separate rectangular pin--green with 5 narrow white veticle stripes.
Also separate round pin that probably went on the collar?

Thanks
Answer -
Wes:

 Actually, medals and insignia are one of my specialties.  The medal you describe, with ribbon bar, is the Army Commendation Medal.  The medal part should be pentagram shaped with the eagle inside it.

  The round pin could be either a "US" Collar brass pin, or a "designator" pin, indicating the branch of service. For example, 2 crossed rifles are Infantry.  Crossed flintlock pistols are Military Police.  Crossed flags are Signal Corps.  If you send a description of what is on the pin, I can give you better info on that.

 If the ArCom medal has a "V" on it, it was awarded for Valor in Combat.  If not, it was awarded for Meritorious Service.

 Best Regards,

    Jason

Answer
Wes:

  Yes, the "ArCom" is the larger pentagram shaped medal.  "ArCom" is just an abbreviation of Army Commendation Medal.

  The pin you describe with the green/white stripes sounds like a ribbon bar.  People in the military wear ribbon bars on their day to day uniforms, since it's easier than wearing the medals themselves.  That's why the ribbon bar has the same colors as the medal.   A knowledgeable person can look at a military persons ribbons and tell you exactly where they have been and what they have done in their career.

  Since you also say you have a 'round pin' with these colors on it, I'm guessing (without seeing it) that is a lapel pin, for wear on civilian clothing.  Most awards come with a pin like that.

  Hope that helps!
      Jason