Some forms of recognition are well known. Others remain quietly available while eligible Veterans and families have no idea they can apply.
The Missouri Veterans Recognition War Medallion Program honors eligible Veterans who served during specific periods of conflict. Qualifying recipients may receive a war medallion, medal, and certificate from the State of Missouri.
There is no requirement that the Veteran served overseas. Eligibility is based on the program’s service, honorable status, and Missouri connection requirements.
Here is what Veterans and families need to know.
The Missouri Veterans Recognition Program is a state program with roots dating back to 1919.
Over time, the program expanded to recognize Veterans who served during several major periods of conflict. The most recent expansion added recognition for Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, and Operation Allies Refuge.
Depending on the qualifying service period, an eligible Veteran may receive:
These awards are provided as a token of appreciation from the State of Missouri.
This program is separate from VA disability compensation. Receiving the award does not establish service connection, change a VA disability rating, or affect monthly VA benefits.
It is simply recognition of honorable military service.
The Missouri National Guard lists the following eligible periods:
December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946
Special Jubilee of Liberty recognition may apply to qualifying service connected to the Battle of Normandy from June 6, 1944, through September 30, 1944.
June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955
February 28, 1961, through May 7, 1974
August 7, 1990, through June 7, 1991
March 19, 2003, through December 15, 2011
October 7, 2001, through August 20, 2021
Service during one of these periods is only part of the eligibility review. Applicants must also meet the program’s other requirements.
According to the Missouri National Guard, a Veteran must meet the following general requirements:
That Missouri connection may be established if the Veteran:
The award may be available whether the Veteran served within the United States or in another country.
Eligibility is determined by the State of Missouri. Veterans should review the official Missouri National Guard eligibility requirements before applying.
Yes. A surviving spouse or the oldest living survivor of a deceased Veteran may apply when the Veteran met the program requirements.
This is important because many eligible Veterans may have passed away before receiving their recognition. The program gives qualifying families a way to preserve and honor that service.
Families looking for additional information about recognition and resources may also find our guide to Gold Star, Silver Star, and Blue Star families helpful.
Applicants should be prepared to provide:
Service documentation may include a DD Form 214 or other official military records showing dates and character of service.
Read the instructions carefully before submitting the application. Missing service records or incomplete information may delay the state’s review.
Veterans and families have two main application options.
The Missouri National Guard provides access to the state’s online application through the Missouri Veterans Recognition Program page.
Applicants may download and complete the appropriate application, include the required service documentation, and submit it to:
Office of the Adjutant General
ATTN: Veterans Awards
P.O. Box 1808
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Fax: 573-638-9566
Toll-free information line: 866-834-3431
Always confirm the latest instructions on the official program page before submitting an application.
United Veteran Benefits Agency is proud to help spread the word about this program through our community relationships with the AUSA Fort Leonard Wood Mid-Missouri Chapter and the Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce.
Veterans and families who would like help completing the basic application forms may contact the Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce:
Phone: 573-364-3577
Email: rollacc@rollachamber.org
Address: 1311 Kingshighway, Rolla, MO 65401
UVBA does not administer the Missouri Veterans Recognition Program or make eligibility decisions. Our role is to help more Veterans discover resources and recognition opportunities available in their communities.
You can learn more about UVBA’s community partnerships and the organizations we support.
A program cannot honor a Veteran who never learns that it exists.
If you served during one of the qualifying periods, take a few minutes to review the requirements. If a parent, spouse, grandparent, friend, or fellow Veteran may qualify, share this information with them.
Military service deserves to be remembered. Sometimes helping that happen begins with a simple conversation.
For official requirements and application forms, visit the Missouri Veterans Recognition War Medallion Program.
For more stories about organizations strengthening the Veteran community, read about The Fallen Outdoors and its mission to build connection through outdoor experiences.