ARLINGTON, Virginia –
The U.S. Space Force has established new service-specific awards and recognition for civilians effective Jan. 4, 2024.
- The Chief of Space Operations Award for Exceptional Public Service pays tribute to private citizens or private organizations for their contributions and exceptional support to the U.S. Space Force.
- The Headquarters Space Force Staff Lapel Pin recognizes civilians who have served on Headquarters Space Force Staff within the National Capital Region, to include remote employees.
- The Space Force Lapel Button serves as a cultural symbol of recognition of the importance of civilian contributions and professional development to the U.S. Space Force. Creating our culture with recognition of Guardians at the forefront strengthens mission success while enhancing pride in the organization.
- Civilian Length of Service Recognition Pins and Certificates (U.S. Space Force specific designs) recognize civilian length of service.
- The Space Force Retired Lapel Button (U.S. Space Force specific design) recognizes civilians at the time of retirement.
- The Certificate of Commendation recognizes individuals for a variety of accomplishments that do not fall under the performance awards category for an act, or service that is above average. A letter of appreciation may be used at any time to express appreciation to an employee for an above-average act or service; recognize employee contributions to civic or professional activities normally expected in the performance of the job, such as speaking, participating in conferences or other leadership activities.
- The Certificate of Appreciation recognizes an employee for an unusual achievement or contribution that does not meet the criteria for other awards. Such situations include but are not limited to noteworthy accomplishments while on special assignment or during short periods when an unusual work situation or emergency exists; Department of the Air Force programs recognized by an outside organization to which the employee contributed that was significant; and exceptional participation in civic or professional activities related to official employment.
Information and eligibility criteria for these categories can be found in Space Force Guidance Memorandum SPFGM2024-36-01, United States Space Force Civilian Recognition Program.