Omar N. Bradley Medal Distinguished Service Award (design for obverse)

Joseph E. Renier, Omar N. Bradley Medal Distinguished Service Award (design for obverse), 1950, bronze, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Joseph Renier, 1967.93.51
Copied Joseph E. Renier, Omar N. Bradley Medal Distinguished Service Award (design for obverse), 1950, bronze, 1 12 in. (3.9 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Joseph Renier, 1967.93.51

Artwork Details

Title
Omar N. Bradley Medal Distinguished Service Award (design for obverse)
Founder
Medallic Art Company
Date
1950
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
1 12 in. (3.9 cm) diam.
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Joseph Renier
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Keywords
  • Dress — uniform — military uniform
  • Occupation — military — general
  • Portrait male — Bradley, Omar N. — bust
Object Number
1967.93.51

Artwork Description

During World War II, General Omar N. Bradley (1893-1981) led American forces on the beaches of Normandy and in the Battle of the Bulge. Joseph Renier's medal was designed in the year Bradley was promoted to the rank of General of the Army. The portrait on the obverse captures Bradley's capable but kind personality. Will Lang, a bureau chief for Life magazine, once said, 'The thing I most admire about Omar Bradley is his gentleness. He was never known to issue an order to anybody of any rank without saying 'Please' first."