Army Good Conduct Medal

The Good Conduct Medal is awarded for exemplary behaviour, efficiency, and fidelity in active Federal military service. It is awarded on a selective basis to each soldier who distinguishes himself from among his/her fellow soldiers by their exemplary conduct, efficiency, and fidelity throughout a specified period of continuous enlisted active Federal military service. Qualifying periods of service include each three years completed after 27 August 1940 or, for first award only, upon completion of at least one year upon termination of service if separated prior to three years. The immediate commander must approve the award and the award must be announced in permanent orders.

With effect from 1 September 1982, Active Guard Reserve personnel became eligible for award of the medal. For Active Guard Reserve personnel, the medal qualification period may commence at a time during the three years immediately preceding 1 September 1982, provided no portion of service for the medal is included in a period of service for which the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal was awarded.


It was instituted in 1941.