Air Medal

[Wolf308]

Sorry, post from a lurker. I'm still just wandering around here aimlessly and trying to learn. I have a lot more to learn! LOL! But I wanted to show off my purchase for today.



I'm about 99% sure it is a fake, but that's alright, it's nice to look at. There is a name on the back of it, but there is nothing but a name, no rank or anything, so assume it was added by someone else later on. Again, that's alright. I can't really afford to buy the real stuff, but I sure do like looking at it. This one will get added to my display case later on and hung up on the wall for me to enjoy.

[Walkwolf]

Hi Wolf308.

This appears to be a relatively modern Air Medal ( Vietnam era or later )
but I think it is an original - the name could be as well - or as you say,
added later. Still nice enough.........!

[Wolf308]

Yeah, the backside says modern, if nothing else. Here's the backside:

Attachment 355135

And here's how the name was done on the back:

Attachment 355136

[Walkwolf]

Most likely it has been privately engraved. Is there a maker
or code number on the clasp..........?

[Wolf308]

It appears to say Grace-GI.

[Walkwolf]

Probably more recent than the Vietnam era.

I believe 'GI' means Graco is a Government contracted or certified maker
of medals and insignia. I also have one or two U.S. medals with
the same marking.........

[KMMorris]

I would say original from 1970-2000

[big ned]

I would say original from 1970-2000

Incorrect. The Army originally used oak leaf clusters, as seen above, however changed to numerals early during the Vietnam War when the number of Air Medals awarded became too large to be annotated on a single ribbon. Therefore the medal is definitely pre 1970.

Regards, Ned.

[Walkwolf]

'Graco' have been manufacturing medals for just over 25 years.........

[Javelin4life]

Not necessarily a fake, as it has GI stamped on the back...just a more recent pick up..still, very nice Have you been able to trace the recipient to the medal yet?