The SAR Bronze Good Citizen Commendation Medal is a multi-purpose award designed to recognize individuals whose community (i.e., school, locality, or state) achievements are noteworthy. It can be presented to both adults and minors and to Compatriots and nonCompatriots alike (subject to the limitations and/or restrictions). National SAR approval may be required.

The SAR Heroism Commendation Medal recognizes outstanding bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of imminent danger, i.e., acts which involve great personal courage and risk to the recipient. It is intended primarily for acts by civilians not in uniform but does not exclude police, firemen, and SAR members. It is not intended to recognize acts that would have been covered by armed forces medals for valor. The medal may also be presented posthumously.

The SAR Life Saving Commendation Medal is presented to those individuals who have acted to save a human life without necessarily placing their own life or themselves in imminent danger. The medal is intended primarily for acts by civilians not in uniform, however, police officers, fire fighters, emergency medical personal, lifeguards, and SAR Compatriots are not excluded from receiving this award. The medal is not intended to recognize acts that would otherwise qualify for military or another organization’s valor medals and, in all cases, the fact that the actions of the rescuer actually saved the life of the victim must be validated by EMS or medical personnel.

The SAR Law Enforcement Commendation Medal is presented to those who have served with distinction and devotion in the field of law enforcement. The medal is intended to recognize exceptional service or accomplishment in the field of law enforcement. Eligibility is not limited to peace officers but extends to the entire range of persons who make and enforce the law to include but not limited to peace officers, attorneys, judges, prosecutors and legislators who have performed an exceptional act or service beyond that normally expected. The medal may be presented posthumously.

The SAR Fire Safety Commendation Medal is presented to an individual for accomplishments and/or outstanding contributions in an area of fire safety and service. The award is not limited to firefighters. It may be presented to recognize a variety of fire safety and service that has evolved into a highly technical and skilled profession with constant study, development and involvement by numerous dedicated citizens with a single goal - protect human life and property by preventing injuries or casualties due to fire and chemicals. The medal may be presented posthumously.

The SAR Emergency Medical Services Commendation Medal is presented to an individual for accomplishments and/or outstanding contribution in an area of emergency medical services. The award is intended for paramedics and certified Emergency Medical Technicians and others in the emergency medical field who have performed an act or service beyond that normally expected. The medal may be presented posthumously.

SAR Chapter Flag Certificates
are awarded to individuals, companies, schools and government agencies that fly the United States flag for patriotic purposes only. It is not to be given to any commercial enterprise that obviously flies it for advertising purposes.