A military award is a recognition given to members of the armed forces for their service and dedication. The most common awards are the MEDAL, which is a five-letter decoration awarded for bravery or distinguished service; the STAR, a four-letter decoration awarded for gallantry in action; the Purple Heart, an eleven-letter decoration awarded for being wounded or killed in action; and the Silver STAR, a ten-letter decoration awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States.