Looks like W similarly “awarded himself” a whole chest full of medals:
https://www.army.mil/article/15588/gates-mullen-thank-bush-for-commitment-to-troops
From what I can find, the “tradition” started with Bill Clinton.
“”In my 44 years of wearing this uniform, I have never seen the American public and our military as bonded in understanding, purpose and spirit as I do right now,” Mullen told Bush. “For this, Mr. President, we owe you our greatest gratitude.”
The difference being, the troops really did bond with G.W.B.