US Bronze Star Medal. The Bronze Star Medal was instituted on 4 February 1944 and was awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces for heroic achievement, heroic service, meritorious achievements or meritorious service in the combat zone. The medal comes on its original confectioned ribbon having an Oak Leaf Cluster attached indicating that this soldier was awarded the Bronze Star twice. The medal is nicely machine engraved to 'Robert E. Kavanaugh'. Nice original medal!