DA Form 4980-9: Air Medal Certificate Guide – The Air Medal (AM) was established by Executive Order 9158 on May 11, 1942, and made retroactive to September 8, 1939. It recognizes U.S. military personnel (and certain civilians or foreign personnel) for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.
DA Form 4980-9 is the specific certificate template used for the Air Medal. It certifies that the Secretary of the Army has awarded the medal to the named individual for specified actions or service. Multiple awards use oak leaf clusters or numerals on the medal/ribbon, with the certificate often noting the award level (e.g., 2nd Award).
The certificate is part of a complete award package that typically includes the physical medal, ribbon, orders, and citation.
Air Medal Award Criteria (U.S. Army)
According to AR 600-8-22, the Air Medal is awarded for:
- Heroism or outstanding achievement in aerial flight (may include a “V” device for valor).
- Meritorious service while assigned to flight duties in a combat zone (e.g., every six months of qualifying service for crewmembers).
- Support roles in aerial operations, with updates clarifying eligibility for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators.
Requirements are less stringent than the Distinguished Flying Cross but must exceed normal duties. Passenger status alone usually does not qualify. Criteria can vary by conflict or operation; consult current AR 600-8-22 or unit awards guidance for specifics.
How DA Form 4980-9 Is Used in the Awards Process?
- Recommendation — Submit via DA Form 638 (Recommendation for Award) through the chain of command.
- Approval — Appropriate authorities (delegated levels vary by award type and peacetime/wartime) approve the award.
- Preparation — Upon approval, the certificate (DA Form 4980-9) is prepared alongside orders and the citation. It is issued through supply channels or requested via command channels.
- Presentation — Presented in a formal ceremony when possible, often with the medal set.
The certificate includes the recipient’s name, rank, award details, dates, and authorizing signature block. For multiple awards, additional certificates or annotations may be issued.
Who Needs DA Form 4980-9?
- Active Duty and Reserve Soldiers — For official records and display.
- Veterans — To replace lost certificates or complete DD Form 214 entries.
- Families — For shadow boxes, memorials, or historical purposes.
- Retirees — For display or to support retired pay claims in rare cases involving extraordinary heroism.
Many veterans request replacements through the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) or Army Human Resources Command (HRC).
How to Obtain or Replace an Air Medal Certificate?
- Current Service Members — Process through your unit S1 or awards section using approved DA Form 638 documentation.
- Veterans — Submit Standard Form 180 (SF-180) to the NPRC for medal/certificate replacement. Include supporting documents like DD Form 214, citations, or orders.
- Lost Certificates — DA Form 4980-9 can be reproduced if orders exist. Contact HRC Awards and Decorations Branch for assistance.
- Display — Certificates are often framed with the medal in shadow boxes for retirement or home display.
Always verify awards against official records to ensure accuracy before framing or submitting for benefits.
Importance of Proper Documentation
Accurate records of the Air Medal and DA Form 4980-9 support:
- DD Form 214 corrections.
- Promotion boards or future awards.
- Veteran benefits claims.
- Historical and family legacy purposes.
Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) cases frequently reference these certificates when updating awards.
Tips for Displaying and Preserving Your Air Medal Certificate
- Use acid-free materials for framing.
- Store originals in protective sleeves.
- Create digital scans for backups.
- Include the citation, orders, and medal for a complete display.
For USA-based veterans and service members, resources like the Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil), HRC, and NPRC provide the most authoritative guidance.
DA Form 4980-9 represents more than paperwork—it honors courage, skill, and dedication in aerial operations throughout U.S. Army history. Whether you are researching eligibility, preparing an award package, or preserving a family member’s legacy, understanding this form ensures the recognition is properly documented and displayed.
For the latest official guidance, refer to AR 600-8-22 on the Army Publishing Directorate website or contact your local personnel office/HRC.