In the Star Trek universe, various military medals and decorations are used to honor the bravery, service, and achievements of characters serving in Starfleet. These medals often play significant roles in the narrative, reflecting the values and principles upheld by Starfleet personnel.
But that’s not all. Vulcans, Klingons, Romulans, and many others also have their own commendations and awards. So, let’s take a look at the different designs and symbolisms of Star Trek medals!
The Most Popular Star Trek Decorations
One of the most iconic fictional medals in Star Trek is the Starfleet Medal of Honor, awarded for acts of exceptional valor and heroism in the face of danger. Recipients of this prestigious medal are often celebrated as heroes within the Star Trek universe, and the award ceremony for the Starfleet Medal of Honor is a recurring motif in several Star Trek series and films.
Other fictional military medals and decorations in Star Trek include the Starfleet Decoration for Gallantry, the Starfleet Citation for Conspicuous Gallantry, and the Starfleet Cross. These medals are awarded for acts of bravery, courage, and self-sacrifice in the line of duty, and they serve as symbols of honor and recognition within the Starfleet hierarchy.
The series and movies also mention quite a few Old Earth Decorations (the period from 1901 to the year 2000). For example, several awards from the United States military, medals from Nazi Germany, and of course, the Nobel Prize.
Star Trek's Vulcan Decorations
Vulcans are known for their logical and stoic demeanor, as well as their commitment to a philosophy of non-emotion and rationality. They originate from the planet Vulcan and are characterized by their distinctive pointed ears and arched eyebrows.
Central to Vulcan culture is the concept of “Surak’s teachings,” which advocate for the suppression of emotions in favor of logic and reason. Surak, a revered Vulcan philosopher, taught his people to embrace the principles of logic, discipline, and self-control in order to overcome their violent and volatile past.
Throughout the Star Trek series and films, Vulcans are depicted as valuable members of the United Federation of Planets, contributing their advanced scientific knowledge and expertise in various fields. We also learn of two Vulvan medals: The IDIC and the Vulcanian Scientific Legion of Honor.
- IDIC stands for “Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations,” which serves as the foundation of Vulcan philosophy — which honors the immense diversity present in the universe. This philosophy, along with the Vulcan culture, was symbolized by a triangle-over-circle emblem commonly known as “IDIC.” These symbols appear as early as in the 4th century AD (as shown in Surak’s katric ark). Michael Burnham and fellow graduates from the Vulcan Science Academy proudly adorned IDIC badges during their graduation ceremony on Vulcan.
- We have less information about the Vulcanian Scientific Legion of Honor, also known as the Vulcan Scientific Legion of Honor. However, we know it is a distinguished accolade granted on Vulcan to honor exceptional scientific achievements. Prior to 2256, Michael Burnham was honored with this prestigious medal, as noted in “The Butcher’s Knife Cares Not for the Lamb’s Cry” episode of DIS. Similarly, Commander Spock received this accolade at some point during his career before 2267, as referenced in the “Court Martial” episode of TOS.
Star Trek's Starfleet Decorations
Starfleet, the exploratory and defensive organization in the Star Trek universe, bestows various decorations and medals. There are, in fact, more Starfleet awards from Starfleet than any other organization.
Here are some of the notable awards and recipients:
Starfleet Award of Valor: Awarded to Captain James T. Kirk, Lieutenant Commander Leonard McCoy, and Lieutenant Commander Spock for their remarkable courage and heroism during various missions.
Christopher Pike Medal of Valor: Recognizes acts of extraordinary bravery and valor in the face of danger. Awarded to Captain Benjamin Sisko and Captain Solok for their exceptional leadership and bravery in critical situations.
Cochrane Medal of Excellence: Presented to Ensign Harry Kim in an alternate reality, symbolizing excellence in service and dedication to Starfleet’s principles.
Grankite Order of Tactics: Acknowledges strategic brilliance and tactical prowess. Awarded to Captain James T. Kirk for his exceptional command abilities.
Karagite Order of Heroism: Honors acts of heroism and selflessness. Awarded to Captain James T. Kirk for his courageous actions in the line of duty.
Legion of Honor: Recognizes outstanding service and dedication to Starfleet’s ideals. Awarded to Lieutenant Commander Leonard McCoy and Lieutenant Commander Data for their exemplary contributions.
Palm Leaf of Axanar Peace Mission: Awarded to Captain James T. Kirk for his role in fostering peace during the Axanar Peace Mission.
Preantares Ribbon of Commendation: Presented to Captain Jonathan Archer and Captain James T. Kirk for their commendable service and leadership.
- Star Cross: Acknowledges exceptional valor and service to Starfleet. Awarded to Captain Jonathan Archer, Captain Philippa Georgiou, and Lieutenant Commander Data for their outstanding contributions.
Starfleet Citation for Conspicuous Gallantry: Recognizes acts of conspicuous gallantry and valor in combat. Awarded to Captain James T. Kirk for his extraordinary bravery.
Starfleet Decoration for Gallantry: Honors individuals who have shown exceptional courage and bravery. Awarded to Lieutenant Commander Data for his selfless actions.
Starfleet Extended Tour Ribbon: Recognizes extended service and dedication to duty. Awarded to several Starfleet officers for their prolonged commitment to their assignments.
Starfleet Medal of Commendation: Awarded to The Doctor for his exceptional contributions and service to the crew of the USS Voyager.
Starfleet Medal of Honor: The highest honor bestowed by Starfleet, recognizing acts of exceptional courage and valor. Awarded to various notable individuals, including Captain James T. Kirk, Captain Philippa Georgiou, and Commander Saru.
Starfleet Medal of Valor: Recognizes acts of extraordinary bravery and heroism. Awarded to Captain Jonathan Archer for his valorous actions.
Starfleet Silver Palm: Presented for acts of bravery and gallantry in hazardous situations.
Star Trek's Klingon Decorations
The Klingon Empire also awards several prestigious decorations and honors upon its warriors and leaders. Among these are the Order of the Bat’leth, the Star of Kahless, and the Order of Kahless.
The Order of the Bat’leth is one of the highest honors awarded by the Klingon Empire. It is named after the traditional Klingon weapon, the bat’leth, symbolizing martial prowess and honor in battle. This decoration is typically awarded to warriors who have demonstrated exceptional courage, skill, and valor on the battlefield. Recipients of the Order of the Bat’leth are esteemed among Klingon society and are revered as champions of the Empire’s martial traditions.
The Star of Kahless is a prestigious decoration awarded to Klingon leaders and heroes who have distinguished themselves in service to the Empire. Named after Kahless the Unforgettable, a legendary figure in Klingon history, this honor symbolizes leadership, honor, and unity. The Star of Kahless is typically presented to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic prowess, and devotion to the ideals of the Klingon Empire.
The Order of Kahless is a revered decoration awarded for acts of extraordinary bravery and sacrifice in defense of the Klingon Empire. Established in honor of Kahless the Unforgettable, this order is bestowed upon warriors who have displayed unwavering loyalty, resilience, and selflessness in the face of adversity. Recipients of the Order of Kahless are celebrated as exemplars of Klingon valor and tradition, embodying the highest ideals of honor and duty.
Star Trek's United Federation of Planets Decorations
The United Federation of Planets is Star Trek’s interstellar government. It bestows various medals and honors to recognize exceptional contributions and achievements of its citizens and allies. Three notable medals within the Federation are the Carrington Award, the Federation Citation of Honor, and the Zee-Magnees Prize:
- The Carrington Award is a prestigious honor given by the United Federation of Planets to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to diplomacy and peacekeeping efforts. Named after Ambassador Robert Carrington, who played a key role in Federation-Klingon relations, this award symbolizes the Federation’s commitment to fostering peaceful relations among different species and civilizations.
- The Federation Citation of Honor is a distinguished medal awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional bravery, leadership, and service to the United Federation of Planets. Recipients of this citation are recognized for their acts of valor and selflessness in the face of adversity, embodying the highest ideals of the Federation and serving as role models for others.
- Lastly, the Zee-Magnees Prize is a prestigious scientific award presented by the United Federation of Planets to honor breakthroughs and advancements in the field of astrophysics and space exploration. Named after renowned scientist Zee-Magnees, this prize recognizes individuals or teams who have made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe, pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and innovation.
Star Trek's Cardassian Decorations
The Cardassian Union, known for its authoritarian regime and militaristic society, bestows various awards and commendations upon its citizens and military personnel, too. These Cardassian awards and commendations reflect the values and priorities of the Cardassian Union, emphasizing loyalty, duty, and excellence in service to the state. Two notable decorations within the Cardassian Union are the Legate’s Crest of Valor and the Proficient Service Medallion:
The Legate’s Crest of Valor is one of the highest honors awarded by the Cardassian Union, typically bestowed upon military officers and high-ranking officials who have demonstrated exceptional bravery and leadership in service to the state. This prestigious decoration symbolizes courage, loyalty, and devotion to the Cardassian Union, and it is often presented by high-ranking officials, such as legates or members of the Central Command. Recipients of the Legate’s Crest of Valor are revered as heroes within Cardassian society and are celebrated for their unwavering dedication to the state and its principles.
The Proficient Service Medallion is a commendation awarded to Cardassian citizens and military personnel for meritorious service and exemplary performance of duty. This decoration recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skill, diligence, and dedication in their respective roles within the Cardassian Union. Whether in military service, government administration, or civilian professions, recipients of the Proficient Service Medallion are esteemed for their contributions to the prosperity and security of the Cardassian Union. The medallion serves as a symbol of recognition and appreciation from the state for their valuable service and commitment.
Star Trek's Romulan Decorations
The Romulan Star Empire, known for its secretive and militaristic nature, has two notable decorations: the Praetor Colius Award and the Sotarek Citation. These Romulan awards and citations reflect the values and priorities of the Romulan Star Empire, emphasizing loyalty, duty, and excellence in service to the state. They serve to reinforce the authoritarian structure of Romulan society, rewarding adherence to the empire’s principles and fostering a culture of honor and recognition among its citizens and military personnel.
The Praetor Colius Award is one of the highest honors bestowed by the Romulan Star Empire, typically awarded for acts of exceptional bravery, leadership, and loyalty to the state. Named after a revered Romulan leader, this prestigious decoration symbolizes courage, devotion, and service to the empire. Recipients of the Praetor Colius Award are esteemed within Romulan society and are recognized as exemplars of the empire’s values and principles. This award is often presented by high-ranking officials, such as the Praetor or members of the Romulan Senate, and carries significant prestige and honor.
The Sotarek Citation is a commendation awarded to Romulan citizens and military personnel for outstanding service and meritorious conduct in the service of the Romulan Star Empire. This citation recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exemplary dedication, skill, and performance of duty in their respective roles within the empire. Whether in military service, government administration, or civilian professions, recipients of the Sotarek Citation are honored for their contributions to the security and prosperity of the Romulan Star Empire. The citation serves as a symbol of recognition and appreciation from the state for their valuable service and commitment.
Other Star Trek Decorations
In the expansive Star Trek universe, various honors and awards exist beyond those bestowed by specific civilizations or factions. Here are brief descriptions of some of these other honors:
Christopher Pike Medal of Valor: Named after the renowned Starfleet captain, this medal is awarded for acts of exceptional bravery and valor in service to Starfleet and the United Federation of Planets.
Campbell Award: This award recognizes outstanding achievements and contributions in the fields of science and exploration, reflecting the spirit of discovery and innovation.
Daystrom Award: Named after Dr. Richard Daystrom, a pioneering scientist, this award is presented for groundbreaking advancements and excellence in technology and engineering.
Gold star: A symbol of recognition for exemplary service or performance, often awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and merit.
Jalhal Award: An honor bestowed for exceptional leadership and strategic acumen in military or diplomatic endeavors.
J. Bruce Award: Recognizing exceptional contributions and achievements in cultural and artistic fields, such as literature, music, and visual arts.
Kerry Award: Presented for acts of compassion, humanitarianism, and service to others, reflecting the values of empathy and kindness.
Kliever Citation: Awarded for acts of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and problem-solving, highlighting creative solutions to complex challenges.
Okuda Award: Named after renowned technical advisor Michael Okuda, this award recognizes excellence in graphic design, visual effects, and production craftsmanship.
Rigel Cup: A prestigious honor bestowed upon individuals or teams for exceptional achievements in athletic competitions or physical endeavors.
Scholarship: Recognizing academic excellence and intellectual achievement, awarded to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding scholarship and learning.
Tolley Citation: Presented for acts of heroism and selflessness in the face of danger, honoring individuals who have shown remarkable courage and bravery.
Trophy: A tangible symbol of accomplishment and achievement, awarded in various fields and endeavors to commemorate success and excellence.
