[optimistically_conservative]

I think something else that should be pointed out for the non-military (I know that doesn't apply to you) is the Meritorious Service Medal can not be awarded for action/service in a combat area and neither can the Army Achievement Medal.

So the options for individual awards are:

- nothing

- Army Commendation Medal (the I didn't screwed up medal)

- Bronze Star Medal (I did good, or was of sufficient rank)

- Bronze Star w/ V or Silver Star (I truly distinguished myself in view of people throwing lead angrily in my vicinity)

and so on up to the Medal of Honor