title: Medalla Aérea
text: # Medalla Aérea
  
  The Air Force Medal (Spanish: Medalla Aérea) is the maximum military award of Spain in peacetime for the air force branch. The regulation for the issue of this medal is modified by the Royal Decree 1040/2003, 1 August (BOD. Núm. 177).
  
  ## Appearance
  
  Is made of oxidized iron, oval, 42 millimetres (1.7 in) on its vertical axis and 28 millimetres (1.1 in) on its horizontal axis. On the obverse, surrounded by a silver edge, is a rising sun behind the sea and a matron stands, representing Spain, offering, with the right hand, a laurel wreath and holding a sword with the left. At the top of the oval are the words: "Al mérito distinguido". On the reverse is the emblem of the Air Force. The ribbon is 30 millimetres (1.2 in) wide and divided in three parts: the central with the national colours (red and yellow) and at the sides blue. Each medal has a clasp attached to the ribbon with the legend of the action done in black.
  
  