Good Conduct Medal returns to service Published March 4, 2009 By Staff Sgt. Chad Padgett 436th AW Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- Almost three years after being removed from service, the Good Conduct Medal has been reinstated for active-duty Airmen and is retroactive to Feb. 6, 2006. The medal is awarded to Air Force enlisted Airmen for exemplary conduct during a three-year period of active military service or for a one-year period of service during a time of war. "The Air Force Good Conduct Medal has a positive impact on good order and discipline in the unit," said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley. "It's part of our history and we needed to bring it back to where it rightfully should be part of our enlisted heritage." Eligible Airmen should see the medal update in their records automatically if it has been awarded to them. "If they don't see their award, they should contact the Awards and Decorations section here in the 436th Force Support Squadron, " said Matthew Brown, 436th FSS Personnel Systems and Support chief. "We can inquire into a user's record to make sure everything is correct." It is possible for a servicemember not to be awarded a Good Conduct Medal. "This award is not automatic," said Mr. Brown. "It is rewarded for exemplary service so a commander can decline a good conduct medal for any reason they see fit." (Compiled from staff and Air Force Print News articles)