History

The Medal of Valour (Itur Hagvura/Gevura Medal) was instituted by Medal Law in 1970 to replace the Decoration for Heroism, and as Israeli's highest decoration for acts of supreme bravery. The Star may also be referred to as the Medal for Heroism. The Star is presented by the Minister of Defence to members of the Isreali Defence Force (IDF) in recognition of demonstrations of bravery performed in the face of the enemy on the battlefield and which involve a significant risk to personal safety. The Star is also awarded retroactively, and recipients of the Decoration for Heroism were automatically awarded the Medal of Valour. Service in the War of Independence, Sinai War, Six-Day War, War of Attrition, and Yom Kippur War was recognized with the award. It is estimated that approximately 40 Star were awarded.

The Star may also be awarded posthumously.

A silver star emblem in the same design of the Star is authorized for wear on the ribbon to denote subsequent qualifying acts of bravery. However, recipients are only authorized to wear up to 1 insignia clasp.

There may be an additional bronze version of the Star, but more research is needed to verify.