In the ranking of military awards, which has the highest precedence?

• A. Purple Heart
• B. Medal of Honor
• C. Navy Cross
• D. Air Medal

Answer: (B)

The highest precedence among these is the Medal of Honor. This decoration is the nation’s top valor award, granted for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. Because of its unique significance, it is worn before all other military decorations.

The Purple Heart is awarded for being wounded or killed in action, so it reflects a different achievement and sits lower in the order of wear. The Navy Cross is the second-highest combat decoration for Navy and Marine Corps personnel, which is substantial but still subordinate to the Medal of Honor. The Air Medal recognizes acts of meritorious achievement in aerial flight and is also lower in precedence than the combat valor decorations listed above.