Historical Figures

Can a lost bronze star be replaced?

The Bronze Star Medal can be replaced. The Army Human Resources Command must approve all replacement requests. The recipient, or an immediate relative with written notice of the recipient, may request a medal replacement.

For a living recipient. The recipient must submit written request to the Army Human Resources Command. The written request must contain:

Full name

Military rank, service, and branch of service

Social Security number

Birth date

Date and location of award

A statement on the reason for the replacement

For deceased recipient. The next of kin must submit written request to the Army Human Resources Command. The request must contain the following:

Deceased service member's military branch

Deceased service member's full name

Deceased service member's Social Security number

Deceased service member's date of death

Deceased service member's date and place of award

Relationship between the next of kin and the deceased service member

In both cases, a copy of the original award citation, orders, or verification from a state archives office may also be required. It may take up to six months to receive the replaced Bronze Star Medal.