How to Get Your Cold War Recognition Certificate (also called the Cold War Medal & Cold War Service Medal)

Thousands of Cold War veterans and current servicemembers are eligible for the Cold War Recognition Certificate (also known as the Cold War Medal, Cold War Victory Medal, Cold War Service Medal, Cold War Ribbon or Cold War Certificate) but have never applied for it -- even though it's easy. The certificate is designed for American Cold War veterans. Many surviving family members could get an award from the US military in memory of their deceased veteran. Here are simple instructions on how to get yours. Don't wait, the number of Cold War Certificates is limited. [Some good news on government efficiency: One of our readers mailed the Cold War Recognition Certificate paperwork and got the Certificate back in only a few weeks.] Let America Honor Your Service Three Easy Steps to Get the Certificate Step 1: Confirm You're Eligible Cold War Recognition Certificate: Anyone who worked for the U.S. Government at any time during the Cold War era, Sept. 2, 1945 through Dec. 26, 1991, is eligible, provided their service to the country was faithful and honorable. National Guard and Reservists are eligible for the Cold War Recognition Certificate, sometimes called the Cold War Medal, Cold War Victory Medal or Cold War Certificate. Contractors and volunteers are not eligible. Step 2: Get the Documents You Need Find the right document + fill out the application. Here's a link to the application form. Document: Any document which shows that the intended recipient was a U.S. government employee during the Cold War era will be accepted as proof. The document must contain the name of the recipient, the Social Security Number or Military Service Number or Foreign Service Number which was included in the request for the certificate, and a date showing at least one day of service within the range of 2 September 1945 and 26 December 1991. Examples of acceptable documents include a Leave and Earnings Step 3: Order It Mail your document (remember, send a copy, not the original) and application to: USAHRC Cold War Recognition Program ATTN: AHRC-PDP-A, Dept 480 1600 Spearhead Division Avenue Fort Knox, KY 40122-5408 Got More Questions or Want to Follow Up? Visit the Military Web pages