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I think part of what is causing questioning and resentment is that the standard for awards has changed so radically over the years.

I just heard a woman call a talk radio show, and she was very upset; her husband had earned a Bronze Star in WWII, and she said he was upset about this as well.

I don't know if they were making the "V" for valor distinction back then - do you? Apparently most of this man's unit had been killed, and he went through hell to get his. My dad's stretcher partner in WWII was awarded one posthumously because he stayed on Iwo Jima when he had a chance to leave (got a ding in the arm) - was killed three hours later.

His is the only case I'm really close to, and I'm not sure if he got the "V" - or again, if there was a distinction at that time.

I also know the Army is far more liberal with Medals of Honor than any other branch of service; I don't know whether it follows that they are more liberal with awards in general, however.

Yes, they were awarding the "V" device in World War II. As I said on an earlier post, the award of the Bronze Star in WWI varied widely according to the unit and theater. Some received theirs for extrodinary acts, others for just being there. Vagaries of chance.

The Air Force is the most liberal in the awarding of combat and other decorations. The Army is next. The Marine Corps and Navy are the most strict. EXCEPT for the Medal of Honor. Here, a close examination will reveal that the Navy has awarded the Medal of Honor for acts or bravery that would not qualify in other services. The Marine Corps is more liberal in its award of the Medal of Honor than is the Army, probably because its recommendations must be approved by the Department of the Navy. That said, anyone wearing a Medal of Honor has earned it.