Author Topic: Certificate of Merit...  (Read 2797 times)

Offline St. George

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Certificate of Merit...
« on: October 15, 2005, 11:36:25 AM »
The Certificate of Merit is an unusual award.

Originally for Privates, it was later given to Non-Commissioned Officers.
Until 1905, it was a printed document signed by the President of the United States.

The Distinguished Service Cross became the successor.

And - there's some confusion about 'what' it entailed, as well.

Most think that the early-issued 'Medal of Honor' also came with a stipend - but it didn't.

It was the 'Certificate' that had a stipend of $2 for serving soldiers.
That would be eliminated after 1918 - when the Certificate was abolished and the Medal of Honor became the 'pinnacle' award on the 'Pyramid of Honor', and a small stipend was affixed to it as well.

I have an Indian War Medal of Honor - with the associated paperwork (currently on museum loan).
In it - it describes the action, the wounds, the character of the soldier, et al.
It also follows the line from initial recommendation - up to Washington - with 'all' of the truly 'interesting' signatures of the Indian Wars 'names' affixed to the documents and support.

Then - it gets 'Back East' and they take a hard look at the Army's budget...

If they award a Certificate of Merit' - they have to pay the soldier from almost non-existent funds.
If they award the Medal - they don't.
Among the paperwork - there's the engraving order to the U.S. Mint...

Hard times, back then - serving our Country.

Scouts Out!


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Offline Steel Horse Bailey

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Re: Certificate of Merit...
« Reply #1 on: October 17, 2005, 06:26:59 PM »
Thanks for the reply to my question.
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