Silver Star [Military Law] Law and Legal Definition
The Silver Star is the third-highest military decoration that can be awarded to a member of any branch of the U.S. armed forces for valor in the face of enemy. The Silver Star may be awarded to any person serving the armed forces who distinguishes himself/herself by extraordinary heroism involving an action against an enemy of the U.S., or involving in a conflict with an opposing foreign force while engaged in military operations, or engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force of which the U.S. is not a belligerent party.
Following is a federal statute that defines the term Silver Star:
According to 10 USCS § 3746, the President may award a silver star of appropriate design, with ribbons and appurtenances, to a person who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, is cited for gallantry in action-
1) while engaged in an action against an enemy of the U.S.;
2) while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
3) while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the U.S. is not a belligerent party.