Prisoner of War Medal, in original box with Ribbon and Bar, USA POW Medal

Prisoner of War Medal

Years of Service : 1917 onwards

Original Medal Set, with Pendant(medal), Service Ribbon, Clip and Bar in Original box dated 1987

The Prisoner of War Medal Set was issued to all branches of the US Military that were taken prisoner during an armed conflict, from 1917 onwards. Original Medal in box as issued. Box is dated 1987

The Prisoner of War Medal is awarded to any person who is taken as a prisoner of war and held captive after April 5th, 1917, while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States of America. While engaged in military action involving conflict with an opposing armed force or while serving with friendly forces engadged in armed conflict against an opposing armed force that the United States is not a belligerent party. It was authorized by public law #99-145 in 1985. The recipient conduct while a prisoner must have been honourable.

The POW Medal is to be worn after all unit awards or personal decorations. The front of the medal depicts an American Eagle completely encircled by barbed wire and bayonet points. The back of the medal has a space for the recipient's name and the words "FOR HONORABLE SERVICE WHILE A PRISONER OF WAR". The medal is unissued(never awarded to any individual person).