The Pentagon recently rolled out instructions for the new devices to be worn on medals with a “C” device denoting combat and an “R” device denoting remote,? joining the “V” for valor device. The Defense Department instruction 1348.33, effective Dec. 21, 2016, covers 12 awards. The a?wards now eligible for an “R” device are the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the service-specific Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, and the service-specific Achievement Medal. This device is for employment of a weapons system with direct impact on an operation, from a remote location or “not directly exposed to hostile action. The “C” device is for meritorious service under combat conditions while exposed to hostile action. The only award of the 12 not eligible for either new device is the Bronze Star.
OA-1K Skyraider Crashes in Oklahoma, Crew Uninjured
Oct. 24, 2025
An Air Force OA-1K Skyraider II crashed near Oklahoma City on Oct. 23, with a civilian contractor and Active-duty Airman escaping uninjured. The OA-1K was on a training mission when the crash occurred, less than 10 miles from the base.
