Pueblo
Fueled by two pots of coffee and 12 Pepsis, Doug Sterner works 10 to 12 hours a day on a computer, passionately preserving the history of heroes.
In a backroom of his Pueblo home, Sterner has diligently assembled
the country's most definitive database - more than 24,000 stories - on
those who received either the Medal of Honor, a service cross or the
Silver Star.
....
Staff writer Erin Emery can be reached at 719-522-1360 or eemery@denverpost.com.
Military honors
The Army, Navy and Air Force have distinctive designs for their top honors, such as the Medal of Honor, service crosses and the Silver Star. Many are awarded posthumously.
Medal of Honor
A Medal of Honor, left, is awarded by the president. The highest honor awarded in the U.S., it is for "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty ..."
Service crosses
Service crosses such as the Navy Cross at left are awarded for "extraordinary heroism ... ." The act or acts of heroism must be so notable and have involved risk of life so extraordinary as to set the individual apart from his or her comrades.
Silver Star
The Silver Star, left, is awarded to "a person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Army, is cited for gallantry in action ... ."
Source: United States Code