Silver Star

American  

noun

U.S. Army.

1. a bronze star with a small silver star at the center, awarded to a soldier who has been cited in orders for gallantry in action, when the citation does not warrant the award of a Medal of Honor or the Distinguished Service Cross.

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Example Sentences

The pilots got the Silver Star, while the tanker crew will be presented with the Distinguished Flying Cross next month.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

Roland L. Bragg, a World War II hero who earned the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his exceptional courage during the Battle of the Bulge in 1944.

From Slate • Feb. 12, 2025

His commendations included the Navy Cross, the Silver Star and, for wounds received while leading a rifle platoon, two Purple Hearts.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2024

Thursday between milepost 134 at Ross Dam Trailhead and milepost 171 at the Silver Star Gate, a stretch that includes both Rainy and Washington passes, according to WSDOT.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 30, 2023

“And later that night I could’ve won the Silver Star for valor.”

From "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien