The Medal of Valor and the Award of Distinction are presented to an individual or individuals:

Medal of Valor
For a selfless and/or courageous act taken at risk of their own lives with full awareness of the danger involved.

Award of Distinction
For those who distinguish themselves in the performance of duty by acts of personal bravery above and beyond the call of duty but not falling within the criteria for the Medal of Valor.

In submitting nominations for either award, the following items and details should be forwarded with the nomination: The Awards Committee will automatically consider any nominees not awarded the Medal of Valor for the Award of Distinction. The following should be included in the nomination package for both:

1. Copies of any correspondence, including, but not limited to: internal incident reports, newspaper articles, administrative reports, statements or unsolicited letters from unbiased witnesses, and copies or external agency reports, i.e., law enforcement, fire and/or emergency medical service agencies.
    
2. A brief biography or vitae of each nominee, including an outline of his or her accomplishments.

The Awards Committee will evaluate and consider, among other factors, whether the risk taken by the nominee(s) protected or compromised his/her/their own safety or the safety of others. Documentation which clearly shows sound judgement, courage, ability, the use or learned skills and appropriateness or responses will also be evaluated. When two or more nominations for separate acts of heroism meet the above criteria, the Awards Committee may elect to award more than one Medal of Valor. All awardees will be provided with transportation to and lodging at the Annual General Meeting to receive the Medal of Valor in person.

The Medal of Valor award consists of a gold medal bearing the IAHSS seal and suitably inscribed mounted on a red, white and red ribbon in a presentation case, and a certificate. A bar consisting of equal segments of red, white and red enamel separated by narrow bands of blue enamel with a blue enamel “V” centered and suitable for uniform wear will be issued to all recipients of the Medal of Valor and past recipients of the Valor Award.

The Award of Distinction consists of a plaque bearing the IAHSS seal and suitably engraved. A bar consisting of equal segments of blue, white and blue enamel separated by narrow bands of red enamel will be issued to all recipients of the Award of Distinction. (Revised 1/4/04)