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PURPOSE -- In recognition of membership in the
Order, the official medallion was adopted on April 5,1982. The medallion
represents the traditions and values of the Army Medical Department. The Order of Military Medical Merit is a unique, private
organization founded by the Commanding General of U.S. Army Health
Services Command in April 1982 to recognize excellence and promote
fellowship and esprit de corps among Army Medical Department (AMEDD)
personnel. Membership in the Order denotes distinguished service which
is recognized by the senior leadership of the AMEDD.
MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA: Membership in the Order recognizes
those individuals who have clearly demonstrated the highest standards
of integrity and moral character, displayed an outstanding degree
of professional competence, served in the Army Medical Department
with selflessness, and made sustained contributions to the betterment
of Army Medicine. These individuals are generally considered to
be in the top 10% of their corps and field. Any Active Duty, Reserve
Component, civilian or retired member of the Army Medical Department
who, through dedicated application of talent, effort, and spirit,
has made significant contributions having an impact on the whole
of the AMEDD, shall be eligible for induction into the Order.
DESIGN -- The medallion's design is derived from
early U.S. Army Medical officer uniform emblems. In keeping with
this, the medallion is made out of white brass. The central element
is a shield representing the AMEDD Regimental Distinctive Insignia
which bears the staff of Aesculapius, the classical symbol of
medicine and the healing arts. The wreath is taken from the epaulets
worn by medical officers until 1890. The wreath surrounding the
shield was worn as a collar insignia from 1890-1896. The wreath and
shield are superimposed on a modified Maltese Cross, recognized as
the international symbol of medical care. The cross insignia was
worn until 1902 when the present caduceus was adopted. The medallion
is supported by a maroon neck ribbon, the color symbolic of the U.S.
Army Medical Department. |
