DA Form 4980-1: Medal of Honor Certificate Guide – U.S. Army certificate issued to recipients of the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration for valor.
This prestigious document formally recognizes extraordinary heroism performed “above and beyond the call of duty.” It is managed under the authority of the U.S. Army Human Resources Command (HRC, formerly PERSCOM) and governed by AR 600-8-22, Military Awards.
What Is DA Form 4980-1?
DA Form 4980-1 is the standardized certificate form specifically for the Medal of Honor. Published on January 1, 2000, and maintained by the Army G-1 (Personnel), it remains active and unclassified with approved public distribution.
The form serves as the official written accompaniment to the physical Medal of Honor. It typically includes the recipient’s full name, rank, the citation describing the heroic act, date and location of the action, and appropriate signatures from military leadership. It symbolizes the United States’ gratitude for the recipient’s courage and sacrifice.
The Medal of Honor: America’s Highest Military Honor
The Medal of Honor is awarded by the President of the United States, in the name of Congress, to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who distinguish themselves through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their life. Army recipients receive the Army version of the medal, and DA Form 4980-1 serves as its formal certificate.
Only a small number of service members have ever received this honor. Recipients (and their families) gain unique entitlements, including special pension benefits, commissary and exchange privileges, identification cards, air transportation benefits, and more, as outlined in AR 600-8-22 and related statutes.
Purpose and Significance of the Medal of Honor Certificate
The certificate provides permanent, tangible documentation of the award beyond the physical medal. It is used for:
- Official military records (such as OMPF updates)
- Ceremonial presentations
- Family heritage and historical preservation
- Eligibility verification for benefits and entitlements
It upholds the integrity and prestige of the award process under strict Army regulations.
How DA Form 4980-1 Fits into the Army Awards Process?
While lower-level awards use DA Form 638 for recommendations, the Medal of Honor follows a highly rigorous, multi-level review process that culminates with Presidential approval. Once awarded, the associated DA Form 4980-1 certificate is prepared and issued through HRC channels.
Certificates for high-level awards like the Medal of Honor are often referenced in official Army documentation, such as selection board announcements, where recipients submit copies for record updates.
Who Receives the DA Form 4980-1 Certificate?
Only verified Medal of Honor recipients (or their authorized next of kin in posthumous cases) receive this certificate. It is not available for general distribution or lower awards. Other valor and service awards use different DA Forms in the 4980 series (e.g., DA Form 4980-2 for Distinguished Service Cross).
How to Request or Replace a Medal of Honor Certificate?
Veterans, recipients, or next of kin can request replacement medals and associated documents through official channels:
- For medals and related items — Contact the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) in St. Louis, MO, using Standard Form 180 (SF-180) or their online system. Specify the Medal of Honor and certificate.
- Army-specific inquiries — Reach out to U.S. Army Human Resources Command (HRC), Awards and Decorations Branch at Fort Knox, KY.
- Lost or damaged certificates — Replacements are typically issued on a one-time basis at no cost to eligible recipients or primary next of kin.
Always provide supporting documentation such as DD-214, award orders, or proof of relationship.
Related Resources and Regulations
- AR 600-8-22 (Military Awards): The primary regulation covering all Army awards, including preparation and issuance of certificates.
- HRC Awards and Decorations Branch: Official source for policy and processing questions.
- Congressional Medal of Honor Society: Organization supporting recipients and preserving their legacies.
For the most current guidance, visit official Army websites (army.mil or hrc.army.mil) or consult a Veterans Service Officer.
Honoring True Heroes
DA Form 4980-1 represents more than paperwork—it is a lasting testament to the bravery of America’s finest service members. Whether you are a veteran, family member, historian, or researcher seeking information on this form, it underscores the profound respect the nation holds for those who have earned the Medal of Honor.
For official assistance with awards or records, contact HRC or the NPRC directly to ensure accurate processing.