Congressional Space Medal of Honor Congressional Space Medal of Honor The Congressional Space Medal of Honor was authorized by the United States Congress in 1969 to recognize "any astronaut who in the performance of his duties has distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious efforts and contributions to the welfare of the Nation and mankind." The highest award given by NASA, it is awarded by the President of the United States in Congress's name on recommendations from the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The award is a separate decoration from the Medal of Honor, which is a military award for extreme bravery and gallantry
Meritorious Military Pilot of the German Democratic Republic Meritorious Military Pilot of the German Democratic Republic Meritorious Military Pilot of the GDR () was the highest honorary title awarded to military Pilots of the East German National People's Army. It was given in form of a Medal. Established on August 1, 1974 by the Council of Ministers of the GDR, it was awarded until the dissolution of the GDR in 1990. The honorary title could be awarded for: The number of awarded people was limited to 10 military pilots per year. The golden medal had the shape of a pentagon with the top below tip, width 31.5 mm