WASHINGTON – The Pentagon has begun three separate reviews on how military medals are awarded.
The move follows criticism over the military's inability to recognize heroism in incidents such as the Fort Hood shootings, and criticism about now-shelved plans to create an award for drone pilots.
Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel signed a letter Thursday ordering a yearlong study.
He said the review will focus mainly on whether the Defense Department adequately recognizes all levels of combat valor and whether current award processes are appropriate.
Members of Congress have ordered two separate reviews into how the military bestows Purple Hearts. That's largely due to disagreements over whether victims of the 2009 shooting at Fort Hood, Texas, should receive the medal.
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