| Byrd Antarctic Expedition Medal | |
| Type: | Commemorative medal |
| Eligibility: | Members of the first Byrd Antarctic Expedition from 1928-1930 |
| Awarded For: | Valuable services to the Nation in the field of polar exploration and science |
| Status: | One Time Award |
| Established: | 23 May 1930 |
| Total Awarded: | 81 |
| Higher: | NC-4 Medal[1] |
| Lower: | Second Byrd Antarctic Expedition Medal |
| Related: | Peary Polar Expedition Medal United States Antarctic Expedition Medal |
The Byrd Antarctic Expedition Medal is a Congressional medal established by an Act of Congress in 1930 to commemorate the Byrd Antarctic Expedition of 1928–1930.[2] Presented in gold, silver and bronze, the medals were awarded to 81 individuals associated with the expedition, for a total cost of $6,560.[3]
The medal is circular in shape and made of gold, silver, or bronze. The obverse depicts a relief of Admiral Byrd in fur lined arctic clothing. Around the depiction is the embossed wording: BYRD ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION 1928-1930. The reverse bears a relief depicting the sailing ship City of New York surrounded by the text PRESENTED TO THE OFFICERS AND MEN OF THE BYRD ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION TO EXPRESS THE HIGH ADMIRATION IN WHICH THE CONGRESS AND THE AMERICAN PEOPLE HOLD THEIR HEROIC AND UNDAUNTED SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH THE SCIENTIFIC INVESTIGATION EXPLORATION OF THE ANTARCTIC CONTINENT. The medal is borne by a white silk ribbon with light blue center stripe.[4]
Of the 81 men who received the medal, 65 received gold medals, 7 received silver medals, and 9 received bronze medals.
After Byrd's 1934 to 1935 Antarctic Expedition, the Second Byrd Antarctic Expedition Medal was awarded to the expedition's participants.
Note - the military ranks indicated are the highest the individuals achieved in their careers and not those held at the time of the expedition.