While engaged in action against an enemy of the United States; While engaged in military operations involving conflict with … MEDAL OF HONOR. DESCRIPTION OF MEDALS. This award is bestowed by the president of the country in the name of congress on the receiver of the award. All five branches of the United States military issue a number of medals and decorations … According to The Institute of Heraldry, these awards are also referred to as “decorations” because of the the personal nature associated with the qualifications for each medal, … List of highest military decorations. Such awards symbolize the military excellences & extraordinary acts of bravery shown by the receivers. Argentine Nation to the Heroic Valour in Combat … On the top of the hierarchy lies the Medal of Honor which is the highest military award awarded by the US government. The five highest-ranking military medals for bravery in combat include the Congressional Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC), the Navy Cross, the Air Force Cross and the Silver Star Medal.