The Bronze Star is a major source of confusion. This is due to the fact that there are two decorations in the Armed Forces referred to as "The Bronze Star." The first is "The Bronze Star Medal" and the second is "The Bronze Battle Star." The two are very different decorations awarded for very different reasons
Bronze Star Medal
The Bronze Star Medal is a decoration awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement. This decoration was established on February 4, 1944 by Executive Order 9419 which states under Section B. the following:
"The Bronze Star Medal is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity in or with the Army of the United States after 6 December 1941, distinguished himself or herself by heroic or meritorious achievement or service, not involving participation in aerial flight, in connection with military operations against an armed enemy; or while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party."
Bronze Battle Star
The Bronze Battle Star is an attachment worn in conjunction with another medal, much like the Oak Leaf Cluster is worn with the Air Medal. The Bronze Battle Star is worn on the campaign ribbon and denotes an individuals participation in a specific battle, engagement or offensive. The Bronze Battle Star is often called the following names in military documents and jargon: bronze star, battle star, or campaign star.
It is quite easy to see how these two distinct decorations can be easily mistaken for each other. What the vast majority of vets have are one or more "Bronze Battle Stars",