Certificate of Merit...

[St. George]

The Certificate of Merit is an unusual award.

Originally for Privates, it was later given to Non-Commissioned Officers.
Until 1905, it was a printed document signed by the President of the United States.

The Distinguished Service Cross became the successor.

And - there's some confusion about 'what' it entailed, as well.

Most think that the early-issued 'Medal of Honor' also came with a stipend - but it didn't.

It was the 'Certificate' that had a stipend of $2 for serving soldiers.
That would be eliminated after 1918 - when the Certificate was abolished and the Medal of Honor became the 'pinnacle' award on the 'Pyramid of Honor', and a small stipend was affixed to it as well.

I have an Indian War Medal of Honor - with the associated paperwork (currently on museum loan).
In it - it describes the action, the wounds, the character of the soldier, et al.
It also follows the line from initial recommendation - up to Washington - with 'all' of the truly 'interesting' signatures of the Indian Wars 'names' affixed to the documents and support.

Then - it gets 'Back East' and they take a hard look at the Army's budget...

If they award a Certificate of Merit' - they have to pay the soldier from almost non-existent funds.
If they award the Medal - they don't.
Among the paperwork - there's the engraving order to the U.S. Mint...

Hard times, back then - serving our Country.

Scouts Out!

[Steel Horse Bailey]

Thanks for the reply to my question.