1989.1088.5 a-d; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
Silver Star Medal
Artifact ID1989.1088.5 a-d
Object Type
Medal
Gifter
James Robert Barnett
Designer
Bailey, Banks, and Biddle
Date
before 1973
Medium
metal, enamel, ribbon
DimensionsOverall H 6 1/2 in x W 3 1/2 in x D 1 in (16.5 cm x 8.9 cm x 2.5 cm )
Physical Description(a) A golden five-pointed star medal displays a small silver star enclosed by a laurel wreath. Eighteen rays radiate from the star to the wreath. The medal is suspended from a rectangular metal loop with rounded corners that hangs from a vertically-striped red, white, and blue ribbon. (b) A horizontal metal pin displays vertical blue and white stripes with a red stripe in the center.
(c) A horizontal metal pin displays a vertically-striped blue and white ribbon with a red stripe in the center.
(d) Gold borders decorate the edges of a black box. The interior of the lid and the bottom portion is lined with golden fabric.
Historical NoteSergeant James Barnett received Silver Star and other awards and associated materials for wounds received in the Vietnam War. Barnett returned the materials to President Gerald R. Ford in an act of political protest following Ford's decision to grant clemency to draft evaders.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from the general public to President Ford during his term in office. It was received through the Executive Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in September, 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.
National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPublic Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)
Use Restriction Status
Unrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
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Exhibitions