Letter
Dear Mr. Mugno:
In its meeting of 19 November, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed the proposed designs for two new Congressional medals honoring bravery by law enforcement officers, with the associated neck ribbons and service ribbons, and provided the following recommendations.
Federal Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery. The Commission recommended Option A, commenting on the superior legibility of the gold-colored highlights in this design. On the obverse, the Commission members suggested softening the treatment of the scalloped edge. On the reverse, they suggested further study of the banner providing space for the recipient's name, commenting that the banner awkwardly breaks up the depiction of the eagle beneath; a narrower banner and the elimination of the receding curls may result in a more successful design while providing the desired inscription space.
State and Local Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery. The Commission members commented that the alternatives do not appear related to the designs for the preceding medal, and observed that the multiple tiers of both options were overly complex, suggesting jewelry rather than a medal. They recommended Option B due to its depiction of the U.S. Capitol, which relates the award to its Congressional sponsorship, and requested that the configuration be simplified by locating the ribbon suspension at the Capitol element and eliminating the attachment device above the wreath.
The Commission members acknowledged the important public service to be honored by these medals. As always, the staff is available to assist you with future submissions.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Charles V. Mugno, Director
Department of the Army
Institute of Heraldry
9325 Gunston Road, Room S113
Fort Belvoir, VA 22060-5579