Hagel Downgrades Drone Operators’ Medal to ‘Device’
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Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel will rescind a special medal announced in February for operators of unmanned drones, instead establishing a “distinguishing device” to be affixed to existing medals, according to a Pentagon statement.
Hagel’s predecessor, Leon Panetta, established the Distinguished Warfare Medal to recognize achievements by drone operators and cyberwarriors. Hagel is taking the step on the recommendation of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.